Transform potatoes into golden goodness: how to make perfect french fries in the oven

Indulge in the crispy delight of homemade French fries made from the comfort of your own kitchen using this step-by-step guide. We’ll show you how to transform ordinary potatoes into golden-brown perfection using the power of your oven.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Large bowl
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Oven

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Peel the potatoes and cut them into even-sized sticks about 1/2 inch thick and 3 inches long.

2. Soak the Potatoes

Place the potato sticks in a large bowl filled with cold water. Soak them for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.

3. Drain and Dry the Potatoes

Drain the potatoes in a colander and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

4. Season the Potatoes

In the same bowl, combine the potatoes with the olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

5. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

6. Bake the Fries

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the potato sticks evenly over the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

7. Flip the Fries

Halfway through the baking time, flip the fries over to ensure even cooking.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Remove the fries from the oven and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for Perfect Fries

• Use russet potatoes for their high starch content, which results in crispier fries.
• Cut the potatoes into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
• Soak the potatoes to remove excess starch, which prevents them from sticking together.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet, as this will prevent the fries from getting crispy.
• Bake the fries at a high temperature to achieve maximum crispiness.
• Flip the fries halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
• Season the fries to your taste with your favorite herbs and spices.

Variations

• Garlic Fries: Add minced garlic to the olive oil before tossing the potatoes.
• Herb Fries: Sprinkle dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano over the potatoes before baking.
• Parmesan Fries: Grate Parmesan cheese over the fries after baking for a cheesy twist.

Healthier Alternatives

• Baked Sweet Potato Fries: Substitute sweet potatoes for russet potatoes for a healthier and sweeter alternative.
• Air Fryer French Fries: Use an air fryer to reduce the amount of oil used while still achieving crispy results.
• Vegetable Fries: Cut carrots, parsnips, or zucchini into sticks and bake them following the same instructions as potato fries.

Final Thoughts

Making French fries from potatoes in the oven is an easy and rewarding experience. With a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can enjoy crispy and golden-brown fries that will satisfy your cravings. Experiment with different variations and healthier alternatives to find your perfect fry recipe.

FAQ

1. Can I use different types of potatoes for French fries?
Yes, you can use different types of potatoes, but russet potatoes are recommended for their high starch content.

2. Why do I need to soak the potatoes before baking?
Soaking removes excess starch, which helps prevent the fries from sticking together and ensures crispiness.

3. How long should I bake the fries for?
The baking time will vary depending on the thickness of the fries and the temperature of your oven. Start checking the fries after 20 minutes and continue baking until golden brown and crispy.

4. Can I make French fries ahead of time?
Partially bake the fries and let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven or air fryer before serving.

5. What are some good dipping sauces for French fries?
Ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, barbecue sauce, and ranch dressing are all classic dipping sauce options for French fries.