Frites

By Joschef

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 POUNDS russet potatoes (about 4 large), scrubbed, sides squared off and cut lengthwise into 1/4-inch by 1/4-inch fries
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 quarts peanut oil

Preparation

Step 1

1. 1. Rinse cut potatoes in large bowl under cold running water until water turns clear. Cover with cold water and REFRIGERATE for 30 minutes or up to 12 hours.

2. Pour off water, spread potatoes onto kitchen towels, and thoroughly dry. Transfer potatoes to large bowl and toss with cornstarch until evenly coated. Transfer potatoes to WIRE RACK set in rimmed baking sheet and let rest until fine white coating forms, about 20 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, in large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven fitted with clip-on-the-pot candy thermometer, HEAT peanut oil over medium heat to 325 degrees.

4. Add half of potatoes, a handful at a time, to hot oil and increase heat to high. Fry, stirring with mesh spider or large-hole SLOTTED spoon, until potatoes start to turn from white to blond, 4 to 5 minutes. (Oil temperature will drop about 75 degrees during this frying.) Transfer fries to thick paper bag or paper towels. Return oil to 325 degrees and repeat with remaining potatoes.

5. Increase heat under Dutch oven to high and heat oil to 375 degrees. Add half of fries, a handful at a time, and fry until golden brown and puffed, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to thick PAPER BAG or paper towels. Return oil to 375 degrees and repeat with remaining fries. Season fries with salt and serve.