How to Cut Potatoes for Homemade Fries

You may or may not desire to peel your potatoes before making homemade fries.

Although a number of devices are available to aid in cutting potatoes for homemade fries, you can cut them yourself with basic kitchen tools. This saves the expense of purchasing a fry cutter, as well as prevents you from cluttering your kitchen with unnecessary gadgets. The best potato for making fries is the Idaho potato, according to the testers at "Cook's Illustrated" magazine.

Things You'll Need

• Vegetable brush
• Potato peeler
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Colander
• Bowl
• Towel

Instructions

1. Scrub the potatoes with a vegetable brush under running water. Peel the potatoes, if desired.

2. Place a potato on the cutting board and cut it lengthwise into 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch slices, depending on how wide you want your fries to be.

3. Lay the slices on your cutting board and cut them into strips of the same width as their height.

4. Place the cut fries into a colander and run cold water over them to wash excess starch away.

5. Place the potatoes into a water-filled bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 24 hours. Pat dry before adding to hot grease.

Tips & Warnings

• If you prefer wedge-shaped fries, cut the potato in half lengthwise and then cut each half lengthwise again. Cut each quarter lengthwise to create wedges.

References

• Idaho Potato: How to Fry Perfect French Fries
• Cook's Illustrated: Classic French Fries