Crispy potato straws (Pommes Paille)

Step 1

Shred - Finely julienne the potato using a julienne mandoline, 2-4 mm / 1/16 - 1/8" thick. (Note 2)

Step 2

Rinse - Place potato in a bowl of water and rinse, changing the water as needed, until the water is clear. Drain in a colander. (Potato can be kept in water overnight in the fridge).

Step 3

Dry - Spread on tea towels then pat dry. If time permits, spread out and air dry for 1 hour+. (Drier potato = less oil bubbling + crispier fries).

Step 4

Heat the oil in a saucepan over high heat to 180°C/350°F, ensuring there is 10 cm/4" clearance above the oil surface (the oil bubbles up).

Step 5

Add potato into oil - SLOWLY scatter potato across the surface of the oil (don't dump in once place). ⚠️The oil will bubble up to ~7cm/3", so add potato slowly, and you can pause until the bubbles subside before adding more. (Note 3 for cooking tips)

Step 6

Fry for 1 1/2 - 2 minutes, using chopsticks (or similar) to stir once or twice. Once light golden and crisp, scoop out and drain on paper towels. (It goes more golden as it drains). Repeat with remaining potato.

Step 7

Season - Carefully slide the fries into a bowl. Sprinkle with salt and gently toss. Serve immediately while warm, or cool.

Step 8

Serve in bowls for munching, as a garnish like for Beef Tataki or serve a mound alongside a juicy steak or other protein (see in post for more ideas).