Discover all you need to know about how to cut potatoes for french fries. Choose different shapes and sizes of french fries by hand and learn about cutting gadgets you can use to make it easier. The best french fries start with cutting the potatoes up perfectly!
Prep Time 10 minutesminutes
Total Time 10 minutesminutes
Servings 6people
Calories 116kcal
Ingredients
2poundspotatoes
Instructions
Prep the Potatoes
Wash and scrub potatoes very well to remove any dirt on the peel. You can also peel the potatoes if you prefer.
Regular Sized, Cut by Hand
Cut the potato in half lengthwise.
Place the flat edge of the potato face down and cut into ¼-inch or ½-inch slices.
Then lay each slice down and slice again in the same measure to make individual french fries.
Cut Wedges
Cut the potato in half lengthwise.
Place the flat edge of the potato face down on the cutting board and then slice lengthwise in half.
Cut each half into 3 more pieces at a slight angle to make wedges.
Shoestring potatoes
Cut the potato in half lengthwise.
Place the flat edge of the potato face down and slice into ⅛ inch slices.
Stack several pieces together and slice into ⅛ inch thin strips.
Cut with a Mandolin
If your mandolin has a french fry blade then set it up and insert the blade.
Choose your preferred thickness for the fries.
Secure the potato to the food holder.
Slice the potato down towards the blade pressing down with a bit of pressure.
Repeat until you reach the end of the potato. Then continue with the next one.
If you don't have a french fry blade, cut into ¼-quarter inch slices and then finish by hand cutting them into strips.
Notes
Start with the right potatoes both variety and size.
Use a sharp knife. Ensures that it cuts quickly, easily, and safely.
After cutting the fries, pat them dry with paper towels before cooking.
Cooking homemade fries in a single layer in the oven or air fryer allows them to cook more quickly and evenly, and come out with the perfect crispness. When frying cook in small batches for crispier fries.
Choose a neutral oil when cooking homemade french fries. Olive oil works great for the oven or air fryer but not so great for high-temperature deep frying. Canola oil, avocado oil, and peanut oil are also good options for all methods.