
Brief history
American soldiers stationed in Belgium were first introduced to French fries during World War I. As the official language of the Belgian army was French, soldiers nicknamed the delicious fried potatoes “French fries.” The name stuck, and decades later we’re still giving credit to the wrong country.
Ingredients needed
- 2 1/2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon onion salt
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup water, or as needed
- 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
Steps to make it
- Preparation fifteen (15) minutes
- Cooking time ten (10) minutes
- Ready in twenty-five (25) minutes
- Slice potatoes into French fries, and place into cold water so they won’t turn brown while you prepare the oil.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil is heating, sift the flour, garlic salt, onion salt, (regular) salt, and paprika into a large bowl. Gradually stir in enough water so that the mixture can be drizzled from a spoon.
- Dip potato slices into the batter one at a time, and place in the hot oil so they are not touching at first. The fries must be placed into the skillet one at a time, or they will clump together. Fry until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.