My Favorite French Fried Potatoes
Crispy, golden shoestring French fries made from Idaho potatoes, perfect as a snack or side dish for any casual meal, offering a satisfying crunch and rich flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the potatoes into thin shoestring size strips.
- Heat Crisco in an iron frying pan until hot.
- Fry the potato slices in hot grease until golden brown or deep brown.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Do not crowd the potatoes in the pan.
- Drain on absorbent paper placed on a paper plate.
- Serve and enjoy!
Tips & Substitutions
For even crispier fries, soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes before frying to remove excess starch. If you don't have Crisco, you can use vegetable oil or peanut oil as a substitute. Be sure to maintain the oil temperature between 350°F to 375°F for optimal frying. Stir gently to avoid breaking the fries while cooking.
Serving Suggestions
These French fries are perfect as a side dish for burgers or paired with a dipping sauce like ketchup or aioli. They also complement dishes such as the Darned If I Know Cake for a fun meal. Consider serving them alongside a refreshing salad, like Dockside Summer Salad, to balance the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and place them in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes. This method helps restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Favorite French Fried Potatoes contains roughly 477 calories, with 8g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (28% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
While Idaho potatoes are ideal for frying due to their high starch content, you can also use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. However, the texture and flavor may vary slightly. Just ensure they are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.
How can I make these fries healthier?
To make healthier fries, consider baking them instead of frying. Toss the sliced potatoes in a small amount of olive oil and seasonings, then spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method significantly reduces the oil used.
What can I do if my fries are soggy?
If your fries turn out soggy, it could be due to overcrowding the pan or not frying at the right temperature. Next time, fry in smaller batches and ensure the oil is hot enough. For soggy leftovers, reheating in an oven can help restore their crunch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).