Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes
Begin by peeling the potatoes. This step is optional, as some people like the skin left on for added texture and flavor. If you decide to peel them, make sure to cut the potatoes into even-sized fries, aiming for about 1/2-inch thickness. Even sizing ensures they cook uniformly. - Soak the Potatoes
Place the cut fries into a large bowl of cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. If you’re short on time, 10 minutes will do, but the longer you soak them, the better the result. This step helps remove excess starch, which can cause fries to become mushy when frying. - Parboil the Fries
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water for seasoning. Carefully add the soaked fries into the boiling water and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they are tender but not fully cooked. You want them to hold their shape but not be falling apart.
Once done, drain the fries and spread them out on a clean towel or paper towels to absorb as much moisture as possible. The drier the potatoes, the crisper the fries will be. - Fry the Fries (First Fry)
In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping a small piece of potato into the oil—if it sizzles, you’re ready), carefully add the fries in small batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature of the oil and lead to soggy fries.
Fry the potatoes for about 4-5 minutes until they start turning golden brown. At this point, they should be crispy but still soft inside. Remove them from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate to get rid of excess oil. - Double Fry for Extra Crispiness (Second Fry)
Now comes the magic. Heat the oil up to a higher temperature (about 375°F/190°C) for the second fry. Once the oil is hot again, fry the potatoes in batches for an additional 2-3 minutes, until they are beautifully golden and super crispy on the outside. - Season and Serve
As soon as the fries are done, season them generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also get creative with some extra seasoning here, such as a sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, or even a little paprika for smokiness.
If you want to elevate the flavor further, a sprinkle of finely chopped rosemary or thyme works wonders. For a zesty finish, a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar adds a great contrast to the crispy fries.
Tips for Perfect Fries Every Time:
- Choose the Right Potatoes: The best fries come from starchy potatoes like russets or Idaho potatoes. These potatoes have a high starch content, which gives the fries their fluffy, soft interior.
- Don’t Skip the Soaking: It’s easy to skip the soaking step when you’re in a rush, but it makes a huge difference in the crispiness. Even soaking for just 10-15 minutes will help.
- Use Fresh Oil: Old oil can make fries greasy and soggy, so make sure you’re using fresh oil. Also, avoid reusing oil too many times, as it can get too thick and start to affect the flavor.
- Get the Right Frying Temperature: The temperature of the oil matters! If it’s too low, the fries will absorb too much oil and become soggy. If it’s too high, they’ll burn on the outside before the inside is cooked through. Aim for around 350°F (175°C) for the first fry and 375°F (190°C) for the second fry.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy French fries are the perfect side for almost any meal. Serve them with a delicious homemade burger, a juicy steak, or even alongside some crispy fried chicken. Or, dip them in some of your favorite sauces—ketchup, mayonnaise, or even a homemade aioli.
For an extra touch, try pairing the fries with a side of Gordon Ramsay’s Burger or a rich, creamy cheese sauce. You can also sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan or make a loaded fries version with cheese, bacon, and scallions.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make Gordon Ramsay’s crispy French fries, it’s time to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish for a weeknight dinner or as the star of your next party, these fries are sure to be a hit. With the perfect balance of crispy and tender, you’ll be making these fries over and over again. Enjoy!
This step-by-step guide not only ensures you get delicious fries every time but also gives you a few extra tips to elevate the flavor even more. Let me know how it goes when you try it!