Crispy Fried Potato Sticks

Ingredients

• 4 russet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin matchsticks
• 4 cups cold water
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 4 cups vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 0 freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Method

1. 1

   Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin matchsticks, about 1/4 inch thick.

2. 2

   Place the potato sticks in a bowl, cover with cold water and the vinegar, and soak for 20 minutes to remove excess starch.

   20:00 · Soak potatoes
3. 3

   Drain the potatoes and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel.

4. 4

   Heat the vegetable oil in a deep heavy pot to 325°F.

   10:00 · Heat oil to 325°F
5. 5

   Fry the potato sticks in batches at 325°F for 4 minutes, until pale and just tender but not browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

   4:00 · Par-fry potatoes
6. 6

   Let the par-fried potato sticks rest on paper towels for 10 minutes while the oil heats back up.

   10:00 · Rest par-fried potatoes
7. 7

   Increase the oil temperature to 375°F.

   5:00 · Heat oil to 375°F
8. 8

   Fry the potato sticks a second time in batches at 375°F for 3 minutes, until deep golden and crisp.

   3:00 · Second fry
9. 9

   Transfer to a clean paper towel-lined plate, season immediately with salt and pepper, and toss gently.

10. 10

    Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.