Step 1

Square off the sides of the potatoes, then cut them into ¼” sticks.Note: Cutting the potatoes to a ¼” cross-section results in an optimal crust-to-filling ratio in our finished fries.

Step 2

Put the cut potatoes in a bowl with lots of cold water to soak for 30 minutes, agitating them from time to time. We used a TimeStick® to monitor the time.

Step 3

While you wait, prepare a rimmed cookie sheet with brown paper of a triple layer of paper towels.

Step 4

Drain the potatoes and dry them as well as you can.

Step 5

Toss with cornstarch to coat and place on a wire rack until the starch dries out and forms a white film over the potatoes (~20 min).

Step 6

Meanwhile, heat the oil over medium-high heat in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot.

Step 7

Use a pot-clip to attach your ChefAlarm probe to the side of the pot and set the high alarm for 325°F (163°C).

Step 8

When the fries are dried and the oil is at temp, carefully put the potatoes in the oil by handfuls, cooking about half the batch at a time.

Step 9

Turn the heat to high.  (Adding the fries will decrease the oil temperature by nearly 75°F (42°C). Adding too many at a time will reduce the heat even more and necessitate an even longer recovery period. This can lead to oil-soaked fries. Take the time to do it in batches.)

Step 10

Cook the french fries for 4-5 minutes (keep track on your TimeStick), or until they start to turn blond. Remove from the oil and transfer them to a prepared cookie sheet.

Step 11

Bring the oil back up to 325°F (163°C) and cook the remaining potatoes in the same way.

Step 12

Let the potatoes rest at least 10 minutes while you bring the oil up to 375°F (191°C). Be sure to set the new target temperature on your ChefAlarm.

Step 13

Once the oil is at temp, put the french fries in the oil, again by handfuls, and again only about half of them.

Step 14

Give them a stir, and cook until they are golden brown, crispy and delicious—about 3 minutes.

Step 15

Transfer to clean brown paper or paper towels.

Step 16

Salt immediately and enjoy!