How to Make Crispy French Fries with Baking Soda
Achieve restaurant-quality crispy French fries with our baking soda hack. Follow our step-by-step guide for the ultimate homemade fries experience.
Ingredients
- Potatoes (russet works best)
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Olive oil
- Optional: additional seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or rosemary for extra flavor.
Instructions
- Step 1: Preparing Potatoes: Start by scrubbing the potatoes clean under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Step 2: Soaking Potatoes: Cut the potatoes into uniform strips, about ¼ to ½ inch thick, to ensure even cooking. Place the fries in a large bowl of cold water, adding a tablespoon of baking soda for every two cups of water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to two hours for maximum crispiness.
- Step 3: Draining and Drying: Now drain the potatoes and pat them dry thoroughly with the paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving crispiness, so take your time with this step.
- Step 4: Adding Baking Soda: In a clean bowl, toss the dried potato strips with a tablespoon of olive oil, ensuring they're evenly coated. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and another tablespoon of baking soda, tossing again to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Step 5: Seasoning: Now's the time to add any additional seasonings to the fries. Get creative with flavors like garlic powder, paprika, or rosemary, but don't overdo it—a little goes a long way.
- Step 6: Baking Process: Place the seasoned fries in a single layer on a baking sheet that has been lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they're golden brown and crispy on the outside.