Ingredients:
- 3 lbs Russet Potatoes (or Maris Piper)
- 4-6 cups Neutral oil with high smoke point (Peanut, Canola, or Vegetable) for frying
- Fine sea salt or kosher salt, to taste
- Cold Water, as needed for soaking
Instructions:
- Peel potatoes. Cut uniformly into sticks approximately 1/4 to 3/8 inch thick (about 6–10mm). Immediately submerge cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water and soak for at least 30 minutes (up to an hour) to remove excess surface starch.
- Drain potatoes completely. Lay them out on several layers of clean kitchen towels or paper towels and pat them completely dry. Ensure no surface moisture remains.
- Heat frying oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven to exactly 300°F (150°C). Working in small batches, carefully lower the potatoes into the oil. Fry for 5–7 minutes until they are soft, pale blonde, and cooked through, but not yet browned.
- Remove fries with a slotted spoon and drain them immediately onto a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Let them cool completely for at least 15 minutes to allow internal moisture to escape.
- Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Return the cooled potatoes to the hot oil, again in small batches. Fry for 2–4 minutes until they achieve a deep, uniform golden-brown colour and are visibly crisp.
- Remove fries immediately and drain briefly on fresh paper towels or the wire rack. Toss immediately while hot with fine salt to taste. Serve straight away for maximum crispness.