Use a mandoline or knife to cut the potatoes into French fry-shaped pieces.
6 large Russet potatoes
Transfer the pieces to a large bowl filled with cold water. Allow the fries to soak for at least 1 hour. Rinse the fries off in a colander. Then, transfer to a sheet pan lined with paper towel. Pat the fries dry with additional paper towels.
Heat the oil to 300°F in a deep fryer or large Dutch oven
6 cups vegetable oil
Working in 3-4 batches, transfer a batch of fries to the oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes. The exterior of the fries should still be white/pale yellow. Transfer the fries to a baking rack, or another sheet pan or a plate lined with paper towel. Repeat this process with the remaining fries.
Turn the heat up so the oil temperature reaches 400°F. Transfer a batch of fries to the oil and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the fries to a bowl. Sprinkle immediately with salt and give the fries a toss. Transfer to a sheet pan lined with paper towel. Repeat for remaining batches.
Kosher salt
Notes
A serving is 1 potato.
You can peel the potatoes or leave them unpeeled.
You can soak the potatoes for up to 24 hours before frying. Store them in the refrigerator while they soak.
Thoroughly dry the potatoes before frying them to prevent oil splatter.
Double frying french fries keeps them from becoming soggy.
You can complete the first fry at 360°F, then flash freeze the partially-fried fries in a single layer for up to 3 months. Fry from frozen at 400°F until golden brown.
To bakethese fries, toss them with ½ cup oil and salt to taste, then bake in a single layer in a 400°F oven for 15-20 minutes. Toss and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
To air frythese fries, toss them in a thin layer of cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Toss in 1 tablespoon of oil, then air fry in a single layer at 360°F for 15-20 minutes, tossing every 5 minutes, until crispy.
Serve immediately for the crispiest fries.
Storage: Store homemade french fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.