Ingredients

For the Crispy Potato Starch Fries (Serves 3-4):

• Potatoes: 400 g (approximately 3 medium-sized potatoes)
• Cornstarch: 85 g
• Vegetable oil: for frying
• Salt: to taste
• Pepper: to taste

Optional Seasonings:

• Paprika: for a smoky flavor
• Garlic powder: for added savoriness
• Herbs: such as parsley or thyme for freshness

Steps to Make Crispy Potato Starch Fries

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and Slice the Potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes. After peeling, slice them into thin strips, approximately the size of traditional French fries (around 1 cm thick). If you prefer thicker fries, you can adjust the size according to your preference.
2. Rinse the Potatoes: Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water and rinse them thoroughly. This step removes excess starch, which helps the fries become extra crispy. Let the potato strips soak in water for at least 15 minutes.
3. Dry the Potatoes: After soaking, drain the water and pat the potato strips dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. It’s important to remove as much moisture as possible to ensure that the fries get crispy.

Step 2: Coat with Cornstarch

1. Mix Cornstarch and Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the 85 g of cornstarch with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add any other spices or herbs at this stage if you want to infuse your fries with extra flavor.
2. Coat the Potatoes: Toss the dry potato strips in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated. The cornstarch forms a thin layer on the potatoes, which is key to achieving that perfect crunch when frying.

Step 3: Fry the Potatoes

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pan or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be heated to around 180°C (356°F). You can test if the oil is ready by placing a small piece of potato into the oil—if it bubbles and floats to the surface, it’s ready for frying.
2. Fry the Potatoes: Carefully place the coated potato strips into the hot oil in batches. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy fries. Fry the potatoes for about 3-5 minutes per batch or until they are golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain the Fries: Once the fries are cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess oil.
4. Season Immediately: While the fries are still hot, sprinkle them with more salt and pepper, or any other seasoning of your choice.

Step 4: Serve

Serve your crispy potato starch fries immediately while they are still hot and crunchy. You can serve them with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, mayonnaise, or even a tangy aioli.

Nutrition Facts (Per 100 g)

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Protein: 2 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Carbohydrates: 23 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 300 mg (depending on salt use)

These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portions used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why do we use cornstarch in this recipe?

Cornstarch helps create a crisp outer layer on the fries. It acts as a coating that seals in moisture, resulting in a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. Cornstarch is often used in frying for this reason, and it works especially well in this recipe to make the fries extra crispy.

2. Can I bake these fries instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the fries for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) and arrange the coated potato strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray or drizzle them with a little oil and bake for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even cooking. They won’t be as crispy as fried fries but will still be delicious.

3. What other seasonings can I add to the fries?

You can get creative with your seasonings! Some great options include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (for heat), dried thyme, or rosemary. Adding grated parmesan cheese after frying can also give the fries a savory, cheesy flavor.

4. Can I make these fries in an air fryer?

Yes! To make these fries in an air fryer, follow the same steps to prepare and coat the potatoes. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and cook the fries in batches for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. This method will use less oil and still produce crispy results.

5. How do I store leftover fries?

If you have any leftover fries (which is unlikely because they’re so tasty!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat and retain their crispiness, place them in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for about 10-15 minutes or until hot and crispy again. Avoid reheating them in the microwave, as they may turn soggy.

Tips for Making the Perfect Crispy Fries

1. Soak the Potatoes: Soaking the potatoes in cold water helps to remove excess starch, which prevents the fries from sticking together and helps them become crispier.
2. Dry Thoroughly: After soaking the potatoes, make sure they are thoroughly dried before coating them in cornstarch. Any leftover moisture can make the fries soggy when frying.
3. Use Fresh Oil: If you’re deep-frying, make sure to use fresh oil for the best results. Old or overused oil can affect the flavor and texture of the fries.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the potatoes in small batches to ensure they cook evenly and maintain a crispy texture. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy fries.
5. Serve Immediately: Fries are best enjoyed fresh and hot. Once they’re out of the oil, season and serve them immediately for the ultimate crispy experience.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked, cornstarch-coated potato strips for later use. Spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. To cook, fry them directly from frozen—no need to thaw!

Conclusion

Crispy Potato Starch Fries are a wonderful twist on traditional fries. With the addition of cornstarch, these fries have a satisfying crunch that’s hard to resist. The recipe is easy to make with just a few ingredients, and you can customize it with your favorite seasonings for a unique flavor.

Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or enjoying them as a snack, these crispy fries are sure to be a hit. Give them a try for your next meal and enjoy the delightful combination of crispy exterior and fluffy interior!