Chef Mitchell preparing Crispy Potato Fries with Aioli
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered my love for crispy fries during my culinary studies, experimenting with different methods to achieve the perfect crunch. Over the years, I perfected this recipe, balancing flavors and textures. The addition of aioli elevates the experience, making it a favorite among friends and family. Now, I’m excited to share this beloved snack with you!"

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, Chef Mitchell specializes in comfort food and classic snacks. His passion for creating easy, delicious recipes has led to numerous culinary accolades. He believes that great snacks can bring people together, and his recipes are designed to do just that.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Crispy Potato Fries with Aioli served on a plate

Why This Crispy Potato Fries with Aioli Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its combination of the perfect frying technique and flavor balance. Soaking the potatoes removes excess starch, resulting in fries that are not only crispy on the outside but soft on the inside. The seasoning enhances the natural potato flavor, making each bite a delight.

Frying at the right temperature is crucial for achieving the ideal crispiness. The garlic aioli complements the fries beautifully, adding a creamy texture and zesty flavor. This recipe is simple yet delivers restaurant-quality results right at home.

💡 Professional Tip

For extra crispy fries, double fry them. Fry once until they are lightly golden, let them cool for a few minutes, and then fry them again until they are golden brown and super crispy. This technique ensures a crunch that lasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the aioli in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to fry the potatoes just before serving. If you must pre-fry them, reheat in the oven to regain their crispiness.

You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise. Both will give you a creamy texture while adding a slight tang. Adjust the garlic and seasoning to taste for the best results.

The fries are done when they are golden brown and crispy. You can test one by breaking it open; it should be soft on the inside and crispy on the outside. The aioli should be smooth and creamy, ready to dip.

It is best to freeze uncooked, cut potatoes rather than the fully cooked fries. If you have leftover fries, you can freeze them, but they may lose some texture when reheated. Spread them out on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag.

These fries pair well with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside burgers, grilled meats, or as part of a snack platter with other dips. They are also great with a refreshing salad for a complete meal.

Cooked fries can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The aioli will last about a week in the refrigerator. For best quality, reheat the fries in an oven to restore their crispiness.

While you can prepare the aioli ahead of time, it's best to fry the potatoes fresh. If you need to make them in advance, you can fry them and then reheat them in the oven at a high temperature before serving.

To reheat fries, spread them out on a baking sheet and place them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness compared to microwaving.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The fries come out dry and hard.

Solution: Ensure the potatoes are soaked long enough and that they are patted dry before frying. Using the right amount of oil and frying them at the correct temperature will also help!

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The fries are soft and soggy.

Solution: Make sure to soak the potatoes, fry in batches, and maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C). Consider double frying for extra crispiness.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Fries are burnt or too dark.

Prevention: Keep a close eye on the frying process. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature and adjust the heat as needed while frying.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: Fries are crispy on the outside but raw in the middle.

Recovery: Cut the fries evenly and do not overcrowd the frying pot. Fry at the right temperature to ensure they cook through without burning the outside.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: Fries are burnt on the outside but undercooked inside.

Prevention: Reduce the frying temperature and increase the cooking time. Always monitor the fries closely while cooking to prevent burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the fries taste too sweet, lower the sugar in the aioli or add more salt and lemon juice for balance.

Too Salty: If the fries are too salty, serve with a fresh batch of unsalted fries to balance the flavor.

Bland: If the fries taste bland, enhance the seasoning with more salt, pepper, and paprika, and serve with the aioli for added flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Crispy Potato Fries with Aioli

Essential Ingredients for Crispy Potato Fries with Aioli

The key to perfect fries starts with choosing the right potatoes. Russet potatoes are ideal for frying due to their high starch content, which yields a fluffy interior. The seasoning mix enhances the flavor without overpowering the natural taste of the potatoes.

Quality ingredients make a difference. Use fresh garlic for the aioli and high-quality mayonnaise for a creamy texture. Adjust the seasoning to your preference to create a dip that complements the fries perfectly.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Russet Potatoes: Opt for firm, fresh russet potatoes with smooth skin. Avoid potatoes with blemishes or sprouting. They provide the best texture and flavor for frying.
  • Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for the aioli for a robust flavor. Avoid pre-minced garlic, as it can have a different taste and texture.
  • Mayonnaise: Choose a high-quality mayonnaise for the aioli. You can also make your own for a fresher taste and control over the ingredients.
Cooking process for Crispy Potato Fries with Aioli

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Follow this simple process for delicious fries. Start by preparing your ingredients and soaking the potatoes to achieve the right texture. Frying in batches ensures even cooking and crispiness.

Pay attention to oil temperature and frying time for the best results. With careful preparation and attention to detail, you will achieve perfectly crispy fries every time.

Key Technique for Perfect Crispy Potato Fries with Aioli

The soaking method is essential for achieving crispy fries. It removes excess starch, allowing the fries to cook evenly and become golden brown. Additionally, frying at the correct temperature ensures that the exterior is crispy while the interior remains fluffy.

Crispy Potato Fries with Aioli

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
    Smooth and creamy
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
    Freshly squeezed
  • 2 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    To taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
    To taste
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
    For extra flavor

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs russet potatoes
    Cut into fries
  • 4 cups vegetable oil
    For frying
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    For seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
    For flavor
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    For seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    For seasoning
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
    For aioli
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
    For aioli

Instructions

  1. Prep the Potatoes

    Wash and peel the russet potatoes. Cut them into even-sized sticks, approximately 1/4 inch thick.

  2. Soak the Potatoes

    Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch.

  3. Prepare the Aioli

    In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth and set aside.

  4. Heat the Oil

    In a large pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).

  5. Dry the Potatoes

    Once soaked, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

  6. Fry the Potatoes

    Carefully add the dried potato sticks to the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.

  7. Season the Fries

    Remove fries from the oil and drain on paper towels. While still hot, sprinkle with salt, paprika, pepper, and garlic powder.

  8. Serve

    Serve the fries hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and with aioli on the side for dipping.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftover fries, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain their crispiness. The aioli can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy Potato Fries with Aioli are perfect as a standalone snack or served alongside burgers, sandwiches, or grilled meats. Add a side salad for a complete meal or enjoy them at your next gathering.

Recipe Variations

Experiment with seasonings for your fries, such as adding Parmesan cheese, truffle oil, or different spices. For the aioli, try adding herbs like basil or cilantro for a unique twist.