The Genius Trick for Perfect Curly Fries

Who doesn’t love the crispy, twisted delight of curly fries? Whether as a snack during a game night or a side dish at your barbecue, getting them just right can be tricky. Fortunately, there are techniques borrowed from the pros that can elevate your homemade curly fries from good to great.

Choosing and Preparing Your Potatoes

Start with the right kind of potato. Russet potatoes are ideal for their starch content, which helps achieve that desirable crispy texture. Wash and peel them (if you prefer), then using a spiralizer, transform them into perfect curls. A good spiralizer is essential, and you can check out some great options here.

Once your potatoes are spiralized, soak them in cold water for at least an hour. This step is crucial as it removes excess starch, preventing the fries from sticking together and helping them crisp up during cooking.

Tip: Dry your potatoes thoroughly after soaking to avoid oil splatters during frying.

The Secret to Perfect Frying

Heat your oil to the right temperature 375 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal. Use a deep fryer or a deep skillet with enough oil to allow the fries to float. An instant-read thermometer can be a useful tool for maintaining the perfect temperature, available here.

Fry your potatoes in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady. Each batch should be golden brown and crisp before removing it from the oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will lead to uneven cooking and soggy fries.

Tip: Use a stainless steel spider or slotted spoon to safely remove your fries from the hot oil.

Seasoning Like a Pro

What really sets great curly fries apart is their seasoning. Combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and a hint of cayenne pepper for that classic spicy kick. Season the fries fresh out of the oil so the seasoning sticks well.

For a unique twist, experiment with flavors like truffle salt or Parmesan cheese for an upscale version of this classic snack. You can find gourmet seasonings here.

Tip: Always taste a fry before seasoning the whole batch to ensure the flavors are balanced.

With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to serve up perfectly crispy, perfectly seasoned curly fries that could rival any restaurants. Remember, the key to perfect curly fries is in the preparation and attention to detail during the cooking process.

Perfect Curly Fries

Course: SnackCuisine: American

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Total time

70

minutes

Achieve crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside curly fries with this simple trick, inspired by the famous Arby’s method.

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes

• Water for blanching

• 1 cup of all-purpose batter mix

• Seasonings (salt, garlic powder, paprika)

• Oil for frying

Directions

• Select and clean your potatoes. Choose large russet potatoes for their starchy content which helps in getting crispy fries. Wash them thoroughly and leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients.
• Blanch the potatoes. Cut your cleaned potatoes into curly shapes using a spiralizer or a manual cutter. Blanch the spirals in boiling water for 20 minutes to deactivate enzymes, which prevents them from going soggy during the final cooking stage.
• Batter and season. Drain the blanched potatoes and let them cool. Dip them into a prepared batter made from water, flour, and your chosen seasonings to ensure each fry is evenly coated.
• Fry to perfection. Heat your oil to 375°F (190°C) and fry your battered curly fries in small batches. This keeps the oil temperature stable, ensuring each fry is evenly crisped and golden.

Notes

• Always ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the fries to prevent oil absorption and sogginess.
• Adjust seasoning according to taste, and feel free to experiment with different spices like cayenne or truffle oil for a gourmet touch.
• For best results, use a candy or deep-fry thermometer to check the temperature of your oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make curly fries without a deep fryer?
A: Absolutely! You can bake the coated curly fries in an oven preheated to 425°F (218°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden and crispy. Turn them halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Q: How do I prevent my curly fries from becoming soggy?
A: Ensure that the oil is hot enough before adding your fries. A temperature of 375°F (190°C) is ideal. Also, avoid overcrowding the frying basket, as too many fries can lower the oil temperature, resulting in less crispy fries.

Q: What are the best potatoes for making curly fries?
A: Russet potatoes are preferred due to their high starch content, which helps in achieving a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. However, you can experiment with different types of potatoes to find your favorite.

Q: Can I reuse the frying oil?
A: Yes, you can reuse frying oil as long as you filter it after each use to remove any food particles. Make sure to check for any off smells or excessive smoke before reusing, as these are signs that the oil should be replaced.