Want to make restaurant-quality fries at home? There are a few important tips to know first. Check out this guide on how to make French fries to get started.

Have you ever tried to make fries at home, only to have them come out soggy, greasy, or bland? The recipe below will show you how to make perfectly crispy French fries every time. The key is soaking the potatoes in ice water before cooking to remove excess starch (works well with hash browns, too). Double-frying also adds crispness.

Ingredients

• 4-6 potatoes, cut into strips of desired thickness (you can peel if desired, but it is not necessary)
• 2 1/2 Quarts vegetable oil, such as canola
• Salt
• Black pepper
• 1-2 Cups ice
• Water to soak potatoes

Equipment

• Large pot
• Candy thermometer
• Large bowl
• Large slotted spoon

1. Soak potato strips in bowl of ice water for 25-35 minutes
2. Strain and dry potatoes well with towel or paper towels
3. Heat oil in pot to 350 degrees
4. Fry a small batch of potatoes until cooked, but not yet browned
5. Remove from oil with slotted spoon
6. Repeat until all potatoes are cooked
7. Fry potatoes again, in small batches, until they reach a golden brown
8. Salt and pepper to taste

French fries may be served as an accompaniment to sandwiches, steamed mussels, or other dishes. They may also be served as a snack. Try pairing them with garlic aioli or ranch dressing instead of traditional ketchup for a change of pace. It is important to serve French fries as soon as they come out of the fryer. This is because they have a tendency to become soggy over time, and the flavor is optimal when they are freshly made.