What are the Best Potato Types for Crispy French Fries?
Not all potatoes are created equal, and some varieties are better suited for frying than others. In this discussion, we will explore the characteristics of different potato varieties, such as Russet, and Yukon Gold, and explain why they are the best choices for making delicious, crispy French fries.
By the end of this discussion, you will have all the information you need to choose the perfect potato for your next batch of homemade French fries.
Why does the type of potato matter?
When it comes to making the perfect french fries, the type of potato you use can make a big difference in the taste and texture of the final product.
Using the right potato is crucial for making great French fries, as different types of potatoes have different starch and moisture content, which affects the texture and flavor of the fries.
High-starch potatoes have a dry, mealy flesh that makes them ideal for absorbing oil and creating crispy, golden-brown fries. They also have a fluffy texture that makes them light and airy.
On the other hand, low-starch potatoes, such as red or white potatoes, have a waxy texture and tend to hold their shape when cooked, which can result in a denser, less crispy fry.
Using the wrong type of potato can result in soggy, limp fries that lack the crispy texture and golden-brown color that are characteristic of great French fries.
Russet potatoes
Russet potatoes have a low-moisture content, which means they have less water and more dry matter. This results in a drier potato that can better absorb oil and create a crispy exterior. Check out my crispy air-fried potato wedges.
Russet potatoes are generally larger than other varieties, which means they can be cut into thicker fries without becoming too dense or starchy.
Russet potatoes have a mild, neutral flavor that allows the natural flavor of the potato to shine through without overwhelming other flavors.
So, what makes these potatoes perfect for French fry making?
Russet potatoes have a high starch content, which means they break down more easily during cooking and absorb more oil. This results in crunchy skin and a fluffy interior, which is the ideal texture for French fries.
Red russets and other potato dishes
In mashed potatoes, the high-starch content of Russet potatoes makes them ideal for creating a smooth, creamy texture.
The starches break down easily during cooking, resulting in a smooth, velvety texture that is perfect for mashing.
Additionally, the neutral flavor of Russet potatoes allows them to be seasoned and flavored to taste, making them a versatile choice for a wide variety of mashed potato recipes.
Yukon Gold potatoes
While Yukon Gold potatoes might not be the first choice for making French fries, their buttery flavor, and creamy texture can be a desirable characteristic if you want a denser, heartier fry.
The creamy texture of Yukon Gold potatoes can result in a denser fry than Russet potatoes, but this can be a plus if you prefer a denser, heartier fry.
Because of their lower starch content compared to Russet potatoes, they may not produce fries that are as light and fluffy.
Yukon gold potatoes and other dishes
Yukon Gold potatoes are a popular choice for both roast and mashed potatoes due to their buttery flavor and creamy texture. Check out these delicious Roasted potatoes on the grill!
Other types of potatoes for French fries
While other potatoes such as fingerling or red potatoes can be used for making French fries, they are not as commonly used as Russet, Yukon Gold, Kennebec, Maris Piper, or King Edward potatoes.
Fingerling potatoes have an elongated and slender shape, frequently utilized for roasting or boiling purposes. While they can be used for making fries, they are not ideal due to their low starch and high moisture content, which can result in a soggy fry.
Red potatoes, on the other hand, have a waxy texture and a low starch content, which makes them unsuitable for making French fries. They are more appropriate for boiling or roasting.
With the right preparation, good French fries can be made from fingerling or red potatoes. It is important to first slice the potatoes into thin, even pieces.
Then, it can be helpful to soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch and improve their texture. Finally, the potatoes can be fried in hot oil until crispy and golden brown.
However, due to the low starch content and high moisture content of fingerling and red potatoes, it can be more difficult to achieve the desired texture and flavor compared to using other types of potatoes.
Preparing potatoes for French fries
Here are a couple of tips for making the perfect batch of French fries:
- Wash and peel the potatoes: Wash the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Peel the potatoes with a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife.
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into even-sized sticks: The ideal size is about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
- Soaking the potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes will remove excess starch and help to prevent the fries from sticking together during frying.
- After soaking, dry the potatoes thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to remove any excess water.
Wrapping it up
So, the best potatoes for making French fries are those that have a high starch content and low moisture, such as Russet potatoes. These potatoes have a fluffy texture and a neutral flavor that allows the fries to absorb seasoning and stay crispy when fried.
While other types of potatoes can be used for making French fries, they may result in a different texture or flavor profile. Choosing the right type of potato can make all the difference in achieving the perfect crispy and delicious French fries.
