Maryland Boardwalk Fries Recipes

BISTRO-STYLE FRIES

Steps:

• Prep: Slice 2 pounds russet potatoes into fries, transferring to a bowl of tepid water as you go. Heat 2 inches of peanut or vegetable oil, shortening, lard, or a combination of fats in a deep wide pot over medium heat until a deep-fry thermometer registers 375 degrees F. Drain the potatoes and dry well.
• Fry: Add half of the potatoes to the pot and fry, stirring gently, until they soften and blister, 3 to 4 minutes (do not let them color). Remove with a slotted spoon or skimmer to a paper towel-lined baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining potatoes. Transfer to the freezer until firm, at least 1 hour.
• Refry: When ready to serve, reheat the oil to 375 degrees F over medium-high heat. Working in 4 small batches so the oil stays hot, fry the potatoes until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Transfer to fresh paper towels to drain. Season with salt.
• Salt 'em:
• Herb Salt
• Strip the leaves from a few rosemary and thyme sprigs. Pulse in a food processor until fine, then toss with coarse salt.
• Bacon Salt
• Pulse 3 slices cooked bacon in a food processor until fine; toss with 3 tablespoons coarse salt.
• Parmesan Salt
• Mix equal parts paprika, grated parmesan and coarse salt.
• Dip 'em:
• Smoky Ketchup
• Stir 1/2 to 1 minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce into 1/2 cup ketchup. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar.
• Spicy Mayo
• Add a little Sriracha sauce (or other hot sauce) to 1/2 cup mayonnaise. Mix in the zest and juice of 1 lime.
• Zesty Mustard
• Mix 1/2 cup dijon mustard, a spoonful of horseradish and some chopped parsley.

BOARDWALK FRIES RECIPE - (4.6/5)

Steps:

• Peel the potatoes. Using a knife with a sharp blade or a fry cutter, cut them into lengths a little less than 1/2 inch square. Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl filled with cold water. Add the vinegar and swirl the potatoes around. Place the bowl in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Swirl the potatoes again and drain the water. Spread the potatoes on a layer of paper towels and pat dry with additional paper towels. In a large heavy pot or deep-fryer, preheat the peanut oil to 315°F (157°C). Line a baking sheet with paper towels. Working in small batches of approximately 2 cups each, add the sliced potatoes to the hot oil. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until just tender but not brown. Using a basket or slotted spoon, remove the potatoes from the oil, shaking to remove any excess oil. Spread the potatoes on paper towels to drain. At this point the potato slices should be refrigerated at least 1 hour, uncovered, or as long as overnight. (You can also freeze the blanched slices at this stage for up to 1 month in a well-sealed freezer bag.) When you are ready to serve the fries, reheat the oil to 375°F (190°C) and fry for about 4 minutes, until crispy and golden. (If using frozen potatoes, allow them to thaw at room temperature. Pat dry before frying.) Remove the fries from the fryer to remove excess oil. Spread on paper towels. Allow the fries to stand for 1 minute before sprinkling them with Old Bay. Serve them hot, preferably in a paper cup, dousing them liberally with vinegar, if desired.