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How to Use Vinegar for Crispy French Fries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
4 large Russet potatoes (best for crispy fries) 4 cups water 2 tablespoons white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar) 1 teaspoon salt Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil) Additional salt and seasonings (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide to Crispy Vinegar Fries
Step 1: Slice the Potatoes
- Wash and peel (or leave the skin on) the potatoes.
- Cut into thin, even slices (about ¼-inch thick for classic fries).
Step 2: Soak in Vinegar Water
- In a large bowl, mix 4 cups of water with 2 tablespoons of vinegar.
- Add the sliced potatoes and let them soak for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for even crispier results).
Step 3: Dry the Potatoes
- Drain the potatoes and pat them dry completely with a towel. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness!
Step 4: Fry the Potatoes (Twice for Extra Crispiness!)
First Fry: Heat oil to 325°F (163°C) and fry the potatoes in batches for about 3-4 minutes, just until they turn soft but not golden. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
Second Fry: Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry the potatoes again for 3-5 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Season & Serve
- Remove from oil and sprinkle with salt or your favorite seasonings immediately while hot.
- Enjoy with your favorite dips like ketchup, aioli, or cheese sauce!
Tips for the Best Crispy Fries
Use the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes have the perfect starch content for crispy fries.
Chill the Potatoes: After soaking, refrigerating the potatoes for 30 minutes can improve texture.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking.
Experiment with Flavors: Try seasoning your fries with garlic powder, smoked paprika, or Parmesan cheese.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever struggled to get perfectly crispy homemade fries, this vinegar trick is a total game-changer! By strengthening the potato’s structure, vinegar helps create fries that are crispy, golden, and absolutely delicious.
Try this method and let me know—what’s your favorite way to season French fries? 
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