For a snack that’s even more irresistible than potato chips, homemade crispy French fries served with a decadent cheese sauce is a winning combination. Achieving the perfect crispiness for your fries involves a few key steps, but the effort is well worth it. And when paired with a creamy, cheesy sauce, these fries become an addictive treat. Here’s how to make them:
Crispy French Fries
Ingredients:
- 4 large Russet potatoes
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
- Prep the Potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin, even strips. To ensure maximum crispiness, try to keep the size consistent.
- Soak the Potatoes:
- Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours. This step removes excess starch, which helps achieve a crispier fry.
- Dry the Potatoes:
- Drain the potatoes and pat them thoroughly dry with a kitchen towel. Removing as much moisture as possible is key to getting that perfect crunch.
- Heat the Oil:
- Fill a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer with vegetable oil, about 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil to 325°F (165°C).
- Fry in Batches:
- Fry the potatoes in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to soggy fries. Fry them twice for the best results:
- First Fry: Fry the potatoes for about 3-4 minutes per batch, or until they are soft and slightly golden. Remove and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
- Increase Heat: Raise the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C).
- Second Fry: Return the fries to the hot oil and cook until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and sprinkle with salt while still hot.
- Fry the potatoes in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to soggy fries. Fry them twice for the best results:
Cheese Sauce
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for some heat
Instructions:
- Make a Roux:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This mixture is called a roux and will help thicken the sauce.
- Add the Milk:
- Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to ensure there are no lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens and starts to simmer.
- Add the Cheese:
- Lower the heat and add the grated cheese to the saucepan. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional cayenne pepper or paprika to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve the hot, crispy French fries with a generous helping of warm cheese sauce for dipping.
These homemade crispy French fries with cheese sauce are sure to be a hit, offering a delightful crunch and rich flavor that surpasses the average potato chip. Enjoy your delicious creation!