Bistro French Fries

By calypan

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes (9 to 10 ounces each)
• Coarse salt
• 4 cups vegetable oil (32 ounces)

Preparation

Step 1

Peel potatoes and cut lengthwise into sticks, about 1/3-inch thick, transferring them to a bowl of salted cold water as you work. Drain, and rinse until water runs clear. Pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat oil in a 14-inch straight-sided skillet until oil registers 375 degrees Fahrenheit on a deep-fry thermometer. Add half of the potatoes and distribute evenly. Cook, without stirring, until barely golden, 2 to 3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain. Repeat with remaining potatoes. (Adjust heat between batches as necessary to keep oil at a steady temperature.) Potatoes may be prepared up to this point about 2 hours ahead of time.
3. Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove paper towels from baking sheets. Bake potatoes until golden and crisp, 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from oven. Season with salt; toss. Serve immediately.