Shoestring Fries
Have you ever craved the perfect side dish that’s crispy, golden, and utterly satisfying? Well, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: Shoestring Fries. These delightful little strips of fried potato goodness always hit the spot. I remember the first time I made them; the smell of hot oil in the kitchen brought everyone to the table. It was a casual weekend, and I had decided to make something special. Using a simple technique, I transformed ordinary russet potatoes into a crunchy delight that pairs perfectly with burgers, sandwiches, or even on their own with a sprinkle of salt.
There’s something magical about the process of making Shoestring Fries. The way the potatoes transform as they sizzle in the hot oil is mesmerizing. I love sharing them with friends; the excitement of watching them come out of the fryer, crisp and ready to be enjoyed, is always a joy. Whether you’re having a movie night or just want a treat, these fries are the perfect companion. The best part? They’re easy to make and can be prepped ahead of time, giving you more quality moments with your loved ones.
Recipe Snapshot
33 mins
30 mins
3 mins
Medium
320 kcal
3 g
Keto, Whole30, Vegan
14 g
Wooden Spoon, Peeler, Frying Pan, Skillet, Chef’s Knife, Oven
Why This Shoestring Fries Is a Winner
Comfort Food at Its Best
There’s no denying that Shoestring Fries are the epitome of comfort food. Who doesn’t love the satisfying crunch of a perfectly fried potato? The textures and flavors come together in a way that leaves you wanting more. Whether you’re enjoying a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these fries are always a crowd-pleaser.
Perfectly Crispy Texture
What sets Shoestring Fries apart is their unique texture. The secret lies in how they are cut and fried. When you julienne the potatoes into thin strips, they cook evenly and become wonderfully crispy. The texture is addictive, and it’s hard to stop at just one handful!
Versatile Side Dish
These fries are incredibly versatile. They pair well with burgers, hot dogs, or as a standalone snack. You can serve them with a variety of dips like ketchup, mayo, or even a spicy aioli. Their ability to complement various dishes makes them a must-have at any gathering.
Easy to Prepare
Making Shoestring Fries is surprisingly simple. With just a few ingredients and some basic steps, you can create this mouthwatering treat. The process may seem a bit involved, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll find it’s a fun cooking adventure. Plus, they’re perfect for impressing guests!
Great for Meal Prep
One of the best things about Shoestring Fries is that they can be prepared in advance. You can slice the potatoes and soak them in ice water a day ahead. This not only helps with the crispiness but also makes it easier to whip them up when you’re ready to fry.
Endless Flavor Possibilities
While classic fries are delicious, you can also get creative! Try seasoning them with spices or herbs to elevate the flavor. Whether it’s a sprinkle of paprika or a dash of garlic powder, the possibilities are endless. This way, you can customize your fries to match your mood or the meal you’re serving.
What Goes Into Shoestring Fries
The ingredients for Shoestring Fries are simple yet crucial for achieving that perfect crunch. The stars of the show are the russet potatoes, which have a high starch content ideal for frying. When paired with peanut oil or canola oil, they create a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior. The salt and pepper add just the right touch of flavor to complement the fries without overpowering them.
- Russet Potatoes: About 3 pounds, or around 6 large potatoes, are perfect for making Shoestring Fries. Their high starch content makes them ideal for frying, resulting in a crisp exterior and fluffy interior.
- Ice Water: Essential for soaking the julienned potatoes. This process helps remove excess starch, which is key for achieving crispy fries.
- Peanut Oil or Canola Oil: You’ll need about 2 quarts for frying. Peanut oil is preferred for its high smoke point and neutral flavor, but canola oil works well too.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the flavor of the fries. Sprinkle them immediately after frying for the best taste.
How to Prepare Shoestring Fries
Preparing Shoestring Fries is a fun and rewarding process! You’ll start by washing and slicing your potatoes, then allowing them to soak to achieve that perfect crispy texture. Follow these steps for a delicious outcome.
- Begin by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly, ensuring they are clean but not peeling them. This skin adds flavor and texture. Next, set out a large bowl filled with ice water and grab a mandoline slicer.
- Adjust your mandoline slicer to the julienne setting. Carefully slice the potatoes into thin julienne strips. The thinner, the better! As you cut, place them directly into the ice water. This helps to prevent browning and removes extra starches.
- Once all the potatoes are cut, allow them to soak in the ice water for at least two hours. If you can, refrigerate them overnight. The cold water helps ensure your fries will be crispy.
- When you’re ready to fry, heat a large 6 to 8-quart saucepot over medium heat and attach a cooking thermometer. Pour in the peanut oil or canola oil until it’s about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F.
- While the oil heats, take several handfuls of the soaked fries and dry them thoroughly using paper towels. This step is crucial, as excess moisture will cause the oil to bubble up dangerously.
- Once the oil reaches the desired temperature, carefully lower a small batch of the dried fries into the hot oil using a skimmer. Be cautious, as moisture can cause the oil to splatter.
- Fry the shoestring fries for about 2 to 4 minutes, stirring once to ensure even cooking. You’re looking for a medium blonde to straw color—this is when they’re perfectly crispy!
- Use the skimmer to remove the fries from the oil and transfer them to a prepared pan lined with paper towels. Immediately sprinkle them with salt and pepper to season while they’re hot.
- Repeat the frying process in batches, ensuring each batch is dried well before frying. You can keep the fries warm in a low 200°F oven, but keep in mind they may harden over time.
Things Worth Knowing
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature (350°F). If it’s too hot, the fries can burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb more oil and become greasy.
- Batch Frying: Frying in small batches ensures that the temperature of the oil doesn’t drop too much, which can lead to soggy fries.
- Soaking Time: The longer you soak the fries, the better. This helps to draw out excess starch, resulting in a crispier texture.
- Seasoning: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding garlic powder or paprika to the salt and pepper mix before tossing the fries.
Customization Ideas
There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen! Here are some ideas to customize your Shoestring Fries to match your tastes:
- Seasoning Variations: Experiment with different spices like garlic powder, cayenne pepper, or even ranch seasoning for a flavor twist.
- Herb Infusion: Toss the fries with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme right after frying for a fragrant touch.
- Cheesy Fries: For a richer treat, sprinkle grated cheese like cheddar or parmesan on the fries right after they come out of the oil.
- Sweet Potato Option: Try using sweet potatoes instead of russets for a sweeter, healthier version of Shoestring Fries.
- Loaded Fries: Top with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, chives, or even diced jalapeños for a loaded fry experience.
What Complements This Shoestring Fries
When it comes to serving Shoestring Fries, the options are plentiful. Here’s how you can enjoy these crispy delights:
- Burgers: They make the perfect side dish for any burger, whether it’s a classic beef burger or a veggie version.
- Hot Dogs: Pair with hot dogs for a casual summer cookout or picnic.
- Wraps and Sandwiches: Serve alongside wraps or hearty sandwiches for a satisfying meal.
- Game Day Snacks: Ideal for parties, game day, or movie nights. Set up a fry bar with toppings for a fun twist!
- Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy these fries anytime, but they shine in the summer when you can pair them with fresh salads or grilled meats.
FAQ
Conclusion
In conclusion, Shoestring Fries are a delightful treat that brings joy to any meal. Their crispy texture and versatile nature make them a favorite among friends and family. Whether you enjoy them with a burger or as a snack with your favorite dip, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings. I encourage you to try making them at home; you won’t regret it!
Shoestring Fries
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Peeler
- Frying Pan
- Skillet
- Chef's Knife
- Oven
Ingredients
- 3 pounds Russet Potatoes about 6 large
- Ice Water
- 2 quarts Peanut Oil or canola oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Begin by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly, ensuring they are clean but not peeling them. This skin adds flavor and texture. Next, set out a large bowl filled with ice water and grab a mandoline slicer.
- Adjust your mandoline slicer to the julienne setting. Carefully slice the potatoes into thin julienne strips. The thinner, the better! As you cut, place them directly into the ice water. This helps to prevent browning and removes extra starches.
- Once all the potatoes are cut, allow them to soak in the ice water for at least two hours. If you can, refrigerate them overnight. The cold water helps ensure your fries will be crispy.
- When you’re ready to fry, heat a large 6 to 8-quart saucepot over medium heat and attach a cooking thermometer. Pour in the peanut oil or canola oil until it’s about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F.
- While the oil heats, take several handfuls of the soaked fries and dry them thoroughly using paper towels. This step is crucial, as excess moisture will cause the oil to bubble up dangerously.
- Once the oil reaches the desired temperature, carefully lower a small batch of the dried fries into the hot oil using a skimmer. Be cautious, as moisture can cause the oil to splatter.
- Fry the shoestring fries for about 2 to 4 minutes, stirring once to ensure even cooking. You’re looking for a medium blonde to straw color—this is when they’re perfectly crispy!
- Use the skimmer to remove the fries from the oil and transfer them to a prepared pan lined with paper towels. Immediately sprinkle them with salt and pepper to season while they’re hot.
- Repeat the frying process in batches, ensuring each batch is dried well before frying. You can keep the fries warm in a low 200°F oven, but keep in mind they may harden over time.
Notes
- Tip 1: Try with our Cajun Fry Seasoning.
- Tip 2: Air Fryer Instructions: Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F. Toss the fries with 1/3 cup oil, then salt and pepper generously. Air fry in small batches for 10 to 11 minutes, shaking the basket at the 5-minute mark. 3 pounds of shoestring fries is about 3 to 5 batches, depending on your air fryer.
