Add a French accent to your recipe collection–and any meal–with delectable, crispy Easy Pommes Frites.
The history of pommes frites is widely debated. Pommes frites, or french fries, may have come from street vendors in Paris or originated in Belgium. During the First World War, American soldiers were served pommes frites while they were in what they thought was France but turned out to be Belgium. Nevertheless, they called them “French fries.” No matter where they’re from, they are possibly the most popular side dish in America.
I love serving easy pommes frites. It seems much fancier when you add it to your menu than just saying, “I’ll make French fries with dinner.” Plus, there are endless varieties. Garlic Fries are amazing and will forever remind me of Yankee Stadium (make sure to get them if you attend a ball game or event there). I think a worldwide favorite is potentially McDonald’s French fries, which are thin, salty, and so tasty. Then we have the “healthier” versions, like baked sweet potato fries
Add the fact that these easy pommes frites have only three ingredients, and you’ve got one stupendous side.
Are Pommes Frites Healthy?
Potatoes themselves are low-fat and low-calorie, and contain potassium. When you fry them in oil, however, you are adding fat and making them less than healthy. So don’t overdo it when loading up your plate! One major perk of easy pommes frites is that they are vegan and vegetarian friendly! They are also gluten-free and, most importantly, good for your soul.
How Should I Prep My Potatoes?
One characteristic of pommes frites is the shape the potato is cut into. First, halve your russet potatoes lengthwise. Then, placing the flat side of the potato half down for stability, cut it into long, even slices. Turn these slices and cut them into fry shapes that are about a quarter-inch thick. For precision and ease, you can also use a mandoline with a cross-cutting option.
Once your potatoes are cut, soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours if time allows. This step removes excess starch, which helps the fries crisp up beautifully and prevents them from sticking together when frying. After soaking and rinsing, be sure to pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels before cooking.
How To Make Ahead And Store
Store your easy pommes frites in an airtight container once they have cooled. They should keep in the fridge for up to 5 days, although they’ll have the best flavor and texture if served within 2-3 days. When you are ready to serve and enjoy, place them in the oven at 400°F for 5–10 minutes, until they’re hot and crisp.
Serving Suggestions
Great dipping sauces you can use for your easy pommes frites include Keto BBQ Sauce or this creamy Homemade Ranch.
Serving easy pommes frites with a delicious burger is as American as we can get (despite the French name). For a unique twist, try this spicy, mouthwatering Jalapeño Popper Burger, or keep it vegetarian by pairing your frites with this Thai Veggie Burger.
Ingredients
- 4-6 russet potatoes cut into French fry sizes
- Oil for frying
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your potatoes, and place them in a container of cold water to soak for at least 30 minutes, which helps remove excess starch.
- After they've soaked, stir the potatoes in the water to further remove starch, then strain and rinse thoroughly with cold water for 3-4 minutes. Allow the potatoes to drain and use a paper towel to pat dry any excess water.
- Preheat oil in a deep-fryer or a large pot to 300°F.
- Fry a few handfuls of potatoes in the hot oil for 3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Remove the fries from the oil and let them rest on a sheet tray lined with parchment paper.
- Increase the oil temperature to 350°F.
- Refry the potatoes in batches for 5-6 minutes until crispy and browned on the edges. For extra crispiness, fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Drain the fries briefly, then toss with salt in a bowl and serve immediately.
- DEVOUR!
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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