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The Recipe · No.826 · French Fries

French Fries, and where to source it

French Fries — 5best2buy.com 5BEST2BUY.COM French Fries American 5best2buy.com

Fry them twice at two temperatures. A low first fry cooks the inside through without color, then a hot second fry crisps the outside deep gold; one pass alone gives you either raw centers or burnt skins.

By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026

Prep20 min
Cook20 min
Makes4 servings
CuisineAmerican
Cost$
VeganGluten-free
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for 4 servings
Russet potatoes
High-starch potatoes fry up fluffiest inside. Cut into even sticks and soak. Fresh, bought local.
4 large
Neutral oil
A clean, high-smoke-point oil for the two-stage fry.
for frying
Sea salt
Fine salt tossed on the instant they leave the oil so it sticks. A flaky finishing salt is best.
1 tbsp
The Rundown
Greedometer ●●●●● Barely a splurge
A light hand — your arteries say thanks. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortEasy
Cook it with
Air fryer
The Method
  1. Cut and soakCut the potatoes into even sticks and soak in cold water to rinse off surface starch.
  2. Dry wellDrain and dry them thoroughly between towels.
  3. First fryFry at 325F about 5 min until soft but pale, then cool on a rack.
  4. Second fry and saltFry at 375F until deep gold and crisp, then salt immediately.
The Toolkit

Fry pot · Thermometer · Spider

Straight Answers
Can you make French Fries in an air fryer? — Yes

Yes — this is exactly what an air fryer does well. Work in a single layer so the air can move, and shake or flip halfway for even crisping. It runs a touch faster than the oven, so check early.

Can you freeze French Fries? — Not ideal

You can, but the crisp coating softens. Freeze the cooked pieces, then re-crisp them in a hot oven or air fryer — never the microwave.

Can you make French Fries ahead of time? — Prep ahead

Best fried to order — the crunch fades if it sits. Do the breading or shaping ahead and cook it fresh when you serve.

Is French Fries gluten-free? — Yes

Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.

Is French Fries vegan? — Yes

Yes — no meat, seafood, dairy, egg, or honey in it as written.

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© 2026 5best2buy.com · Recipe No.826

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