Description
These Crispy Garlic Parmesan Fries are perfectly golden and crunchy on the outside, while fluffy and tender inside. After double frying for optimal crispness, the fries are tossed in a rich garlic and herb butter with Parmesan cheese, creating an irresistible savory snack or side dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
POTATOES
- 3 large Russet potatoes
- 2 to 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- vegetable oil (for frying)
GARLIC BUTTER
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic, finely minced
- 2 to 3 tablespoons Parmesan, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Make the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Mix thoroughly and set aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Rinse and peel the Russet potatoes fully. Slice each potato vertically into rectangular planks about 1/4 inch thick. Stack these slices and cut across into 1/4 inch strips to form uniform fries. Adjust thickness as preferred.
- Soak the Fries: Place cut fries into a bowl of ice water and soak for 30 minutes to remove excess starch and promote crispiness.
- Rinse and Drain: Drain the ice water, then rinse the fries 2 to 3 times, shaking well each time to remove residual starch. Pat dry thoroughly after draining.
- Par-boil the Fries: Bring a pot of water to boil, add the fries and boil for 5 to 6 minutes until partially cooked but still firm. This step aids in achieving a crispy exterior once fried.
- Coat with Cornstarch: Drain and completely dry the fries. Transfer to a tray or large bowl and sprinkle with 2 to 3 tablespoons of cornstarch. Toss and shake gently so all fries are evenly coated.
- First Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-low heat until it reaches approximately 250°F (120°C). Add fries in batches, frying for 3 to 5 minutes until they hold shape but are not golden. Do not overcrowd the pan.
- Second Fry: Increase oil temperature to about 350°F (175°C). Return fries to the hot oil and fry until they turn golden brown and achieve desired crispiness, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
- Drain Excess Oil: Transfer the fries to a wire rack to drain surplus oil and sprinkle lightly with salt.
- Toss with Garlic Butter: Place the fries in a bowl, add the prepared garlic butter, and toss thoroughly to coat each fry evenly. Taste and add more salt if necessary.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious snack or side dish.
Notes
- For a time-saving option, you can skip the par-boiling step. The fries will still turn out delicious but slightly less fluffy inside.
- If simplicity is preferred, omit the garlic butter and season fries with just salt and pepper.
- Ensure fries are dried thoroughly before frying to prevent oil splatter and achieve optimal crispiness.
- Double frying the fries ensures a crunchy exterior and soft interior texture.
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American