Although deep-frying makes for tasty french fries, it is unfortunately one of the unhealthiest cooking methods. The key lies in understanding how to make fries you can enjoy in moderation, while at the same time minimize negative effects to your health. Consider the ingredients you choose and the technique you use as equally important. Combining the best of both allows you to make french fries you can enjoy now without having to pay for in guilt and health consequences later.
Step 1
Compare cooking oils and choose one that has a neutral flavor, a smoke point suitable for frying french fries and a high percentage of heart-healthy unsaturated fat. The smoke point of oil corresponds to temperature, and getting it right allows you to fry french fries at the correct temperature without worrying about oil breakdown, smoking and the release of free radicals -- substances that can harmful you. Consider canola, high-oleic sunflower and virgin olive oil as good unsaturated oil choices.
Step 2
Add enough oil to fill a 5-quart Dutch oven or deep fryer to within 3 inches if the top of the pot. This is enough to fry the equivalent of about two large potatoes at a time without crowding or running the risk of "bubble over" when you add potatoes to the hot oil.
Step 3
Fry french fries in two stages, first to cook and then to crisp them. Heat the oil to 325 to 330 degrees F, using a deep fry thermometer to verify the temperature is correct before cooking the fries. Add the fries to a cooking basket and fry them for six to eight minutes, stirring twice during this time. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fries from the hot oil to paper towels to drain for up to two hours. At this stage, the fries will be soft and limp.
Step 4
Increase the temperature of the oil to 350 degrees F, again using a thermometer to verify the temperature of the oil before adding the fries. Return the fries to the hot oil and fry them for about one minute, until they turn a crispy golden brown and puff just slightly. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fries from the hot oil to paper towels to drain. Pat the tops of the fries with paper towels to remove excess oil before serving.
Tips and Warnings
- Use a dry, starchy potato, such as a Russet or Idaho potato, for making french fries. To create the french fries, slice the potatoes into quarter-inch sticks. Rinse the potatoes with cold running water, and then soak them in ice water for 30 minutes. Drain and dry the potatoes with paper towels before cooking or they will cause the hot oil to splatter.
Things You'll Need
- Cooking oil
- Dutch oven or deep fryer
- Thermometer
- Cooking basket
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
Member Comments