Last updated on November 14th, 2024 at 07:03 am

French fries, sometimes referred to as papas fritas, are among the most popular side dishes. Nothing completes a meal quite like a plate of crispy, golden fries, whether you’re having a burger, sandwich, or just a fast snack. This post will lead you through a 5-step, guaranteed-to-work recipe that will enable you to produce restaurant-caliber papas fritas at home. You’ll discover the techniques for attaining the ideal harmony between a crispy outside and a light, fluffy inside. Let’s get started and make your papas fritas as delicious as we can!

Why is Papas Fritas so damn delicious?

Papas fritas are difficult to resist because of something special about them. They complement nearly any dish because they are crunchy, salty, and flavorful. Here’s why people adore them so much:

Versatility: Papas fritas can be tailored with a variety of flavors, garnishes, and sauces to accommodate any palate.
Ideal for Any Dinner: Fries are a versatile food that goes well with any meal, whether it’s a juicy burger, a steak dinner, or just a nibble on their own.
Classic Comfort Food: Everyone enjoys fries because they make them feel indulgent and cozy. They are the epitome of “feel-good” cuisine!

Now that we are aware of their necessity, let’s go to making them flawlessly at home.

Papas Fritas Recipe (French Fries)

Papas Fritas, or homemade French fries, are a classic side dish made using russet potatoes known for their high starch content and low moisture, resulting in crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors.

The recipe begins by peeling and cutting the potatoes into uniform ¼ inch strips, followed by soaking them in cold water to remove excess starch for extra crispiness. The first fry is done at 350°F (175°C) to soften the potatoes without browning them too much, while the second fry at 375°F (190°C) achieves the golden brown, crunchy finish.

Once cooked, the fries are seasoned with salt and can be enhanced with additional spices like paprika or garlic powder. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup or garlic aioli. This recipe yields about four servings and is perfect for any meal, delivering the comforting taste of homemade fries that outshine store-bought versions. Enjoy the delightful crunch and flavor of these delicious Papas Fritas!

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 10

Resting Time 5

Total Time 45

Course Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine American, Fast Food

Servings 4 People

Calories 1200 kcal

Equipment

Deep fryer or large pot for frying
Deep-frying thermometer (optional)
Slotted spoon for removing fries
Paper towels for draining excess oil

Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes – High starch content and low moisture for a crispy texture.
4 cups vegetable oil – Ideal for frying due to high smoking point.
Salt – To taste, kosher salt works well.
Optional seasonings – Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or Parmesan cheese powder for added flavor.
Dipping sauces – Spicy mayo, garlic aioli, or classic ketchup.

Instructions

Choose the Correct Potatoes: Start with russet potatoes, peel and cut into uniform ¼ inch strips. Soak in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.
Bring the Oil to Heat Appropriately: Heat 4 cups of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or large pot. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
First Fry: Getting the Optimal Color: Fry the potatoes in small batches for 4-5 minutes until lightly golden. Drain on paper towels and let rest for 5 minutes.
Crispy Perfection in the Second Fry: Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry for another 2-3 minutes until deeply golden and crispy. Drain again on paper towels.
Add Flavor and Present: Season with salt while hot and toss with optional seasonings. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

Ensure the oil temperature is maintained for optimal frying.
For extra crispy fries, consider double frying.

Keyword Crispy Fries, French Fries, Homemade Fries, Papas Fritas, Potato Recipes

How to Store and Reheat Papas Fritas:

Although fresh papas fritas are best, you can keep any leftovers in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. Reheat the fries by putting them on a baking pan and heating the oven to 400°F (200°C) for roughly ten minutes. This technique aids in making them sharp again.

Tips for the Best Homemade Papas Fritas:

Double Fry for Crispiness: Always fry your papas fritas twice to get that golden and crispy exterior.
Use Fresh Oil: Used oil can taste oily. For the greatest flavor and texture, always use fresh oil.
Slice Evenly: Slicing the potatoes into equal-sized pieces guarantees even cooking and keeps certain fries from being overdone or underdone.
Season While Hot: To ensure that the salt and seasonings adhere to the hot fries, always season your fries right away after frying.

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to the traditional fried papas fritas, try this Baked Papas Fritas Recipe for a lighter yet equally delicious option.

Meals to Pair with Papas Fritas:

These little gems may enhance any dinner, serving as more than just a side dish. Here are some ideas for pairings:

With Burgers: The traditional combination It’s impossible to top a juicy burger and fries.
With Steaks: A delicious, succulent steak supper is enhanced by the crispy texture of papas fritas.
As a Snack: Serve up a platter of fries with a variety of dipping sauces for a filling movie night snack or as an appetizer at a party.

Papas fritas are more than just a side dish—they can elevate any meal. Try pairing them with a hearty dish like our Cowboy Soup for a truly comforting combination.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 300 kcal
Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 49g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 390mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1: Can I substitute sweet potatoes for russet potatoes?

Definitely! Sweet potatoes are a great substitute for traditional papas fritas. They follow a similar procedure, but because they include more sugar, they could require a little bit more time to fry.

2: Which type of oil works best for cooking papas fritas?

Because of their high smoke point and neutral flavor, canola or vegetable oil are excellent options. Steer clear of oils like olive oil, as they might burn at frying temperatures and have a lower smoke point.

3: How can I prolong the crispiness of my fries?

Use a wire rack rather than paper towels to collect the fries after they are fried. By doing this, air may flow around the fries and prolong their crispy texture.

4: Can I use an air fryer to create papas fritas?

Certainly! In order to get crispy fries in an air fryer, cook them for around 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C), shaking the basket halfway through.