Olivia Carter
French fries – a beloved and classic side dish that pairs perfectly with burgers, sandwiches, or enjoyed on its own. While traditionally cooked in deep frying oil, there is a way to achieve that crispy texture using a microwave oven. This method not only saves time but also reduces oil consumption, making it a healthier alternative. So, put on your chef hat and let’s dive into the world of delicious homemade crispy french fries!
Before we get started, it’s important to note that the key to achieving crispy french fries in a microwave oven lies in the preparation and cooking method. We’ll be sharing a step-by-step guide on how to achieve that perfect golden brown crunch.
Step 1: Start by selecting the right potatoes. Opt for starchy potatoes, such as russets, as they tend to have a higher starch content, which results in crispier fries. Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin, uniform strips, making sure they are all of similar thickness for even cooking.
Step 2: Once your potatoes are cut, place them in a microwave-safe dish and add water until the potatoes are fully submerged. Microwave on high for about 3-4 minutes or until the potatoes are slightly softened. Drain the water and pat dry the potatoes using paper towels. This step helps in removing excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.
Step 3: Next, transfer the potatoes to a mixing bowl and drizzle with a small amount of oil, such as olive oil. Toss the potatoes to evenly coat them with the oil, and then season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs of your choice, like paprika or garlic powder. These spices will add an extra burst of flavor to your crispy fries.
Prepare the Potatoes
To make crispy French fries in a microwave oven, you first need to prepare the potatoes. Start by choosing russet or Yukon gold potatoes, as they are best suited for making French fries. You will need about 3-4 medium-sized potatoes for this recipe.
Wash the potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Use a vegetable brush if necessary to scrub off any tough outer layers. Once cleaned, pat the potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Next, using a sharp knife or a French fry cutter, slice the potatoes into thin, evenly-sized matchstick shapes. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch or less to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy. It’s important to try and make the slices as uniform as possible for consistent cooking.
After slicing the potatoes, immediately place them in a bowl of cold water. Soaking the potatoes in water helps remove excess starch, which will make them crispier when cooked. Let the potatoes soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have the time.
Choose the right type
When it comes to making crispy French fries in a microwave oven, it’s important to choose the right type of potato. Not all potatoes are created equal, and different varieties have different characteristics that can affect their crispiness when cooked.
One of the best types of potatoes for making crispy French fries in a microwave oven is the Russet potato. Russet potatoes have a high starch content and a dense, creamy texture that makes them perfect for achieving a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior.
Russet potatoes
Russet potatoes are long and oval-shaped, with a rough, light brown skin. They are often referred to as baking potatoes because of their fluffy texture. When cooked, the exterior of a Russet potato becomes crispy, while the interior remains soft and fluffy.
Other potato varieties
While Russet potatoes are the preferred choice for making crispy French fries in a microwave oven, other potato varieties can also be used. Yukon Gold, red potatoes, and fingerling potatoes are all good options. However, keep in mind that these varieties may not achieve the same level of crispiness as Russet potatoes.
Regardless of the potato variety you choose, it’s important to select potatoes that are firm and free from any blemishes or soft spots. Avoid potatoes that have a greenish tint, as this is a sign of solanine, a natural toxin that can cause digestive issues.
Cut them into fries
To start making crispy french fries in the microwave oven, you will need to cut the potatoes into fries. Make sure to choose medium-sized potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes.
Here are the steps to cut them into fries:
- Wash the potatoes under running water to remove any dirt.
- Peel the potatoes using a potato peeler, if desired. You can also leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients.
- Using a sharp knife, cut off a small portion from one side of the potato to create a flat surface.
- Turn the potato on its flat side and cut it into slices that are about 1/4 inch thick. Try to make the slices as uniform as possible to ensure even cooking.
- Take each slice and cut it into long, thin strips that resemble traditional french fries. Aim for a width of around 1/4 inch.
- Repeat this process with the remaining potatoes until you have cut all of them into fries.
Once you have finished cutting the potatoes into fries, it is important to soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes. This helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.
Soak the Fries
To make crispy French fries in a microwave oven, the first step is to soak the fries. This helps remove excess starch and ensures they cook evenly.
Start by peeling and cutting the potatoes into thin, even strips. Place the fries in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This soaking process helps remove any extra starch from the potatoes, resulting in crispier fries.
After soaking, drain the water from the bowl and pat the fries dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. It’s important to remove as much moisture as possible to achieve crispy fries.
Note: Soaking the fries also helps to soften them, making them easier to cook in the microwave oven.
Remember: It’s essential to soak the fries before cooking if you want them to be crispy and delicious!
Use cold water
Before you start preparing your french fries, it is important to rinse them with cold water. This will help to remove any excess starch from the potatoes, resulting in crispier fries.
To begin, fill a large bowl with cold water and place the sliced potatoes into the bowl. Make sure the potatoes are completely submerged in the water. Allow them to soak for about 30 minutes. This step will not only remove the starch, but it will also help to make the fries crispy when they are cooked.
After the soaking time is complete, drain the water from the bowl and pat the potato slices dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. It is important to remove as much excess moisture as possible to ensure that the fries become crispy in the microwave.
By using cold water to rinse the potatoes and soak them before cooking, you are taking an extra step towards achieving perfectly crispy french fries in the microwave oven.
Add vinegar or lemon juice
To make your french fries extra crispy, you can add a small amount of vinegar or lemon juice to the soaking water. The acidity helps to break down the starch in the potatoes and allows for a crispier texture when cooked. Simply add 1-2 tablespoons of either vinegar or lemon juice to a large bowl of cold water and soak the sliced potatoes for about 30 minutes. Rinse the potatoes thoroughly before cooking to remove any excess acidity.
Dry the Fries
After you have cut the potatoes into thin strips, it is important to dry them thoroughly before cooking. Excess moisture can prevent the fries from becoming crispy in the microwave oven.
You can start by patting the potato strips with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to absorb any moisture. Then, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and let them air dry for about 20 minutes. This will remove any remaining moisture and help the fries to crisp up in the microwave.
Alternatively, you can use a fan to speed up the drying process. Place the potato strips on a baking sheet and set up a fan nearby. Turn on the fan and let it blow air over the fries for about 10 minutes. This will help to remove moisture from the surface of the potatoes, allowing for a crispy result.
Remember, the drier the fries are before microwaving, the crispier they will turn out.
Pat them dry
After you have sliced your potatoes into thin strips, it’s important to remove any excess moisture from them. This will help to ensure that your french fries turn out crispy and delicious in the microwave oven.
To pat them dry, simply place the sliced potatoes on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Gently press down on the potatoes with another towel to absorb any moisture. Repeat this process several times until the potatoes feel dry to the touch.
Removing excess moisture from the potatoes will prevent them from becoming soggy when cooked in the microwave oven. It will also help the fries to brown and crisp up better, resulting in a more satisfying texture.
Make sure to fully dry the potatoes before proceeding with the next steps of the recipe for the best results. Your efforts will be rewarded with perfectly crispy and delicious homemade french fries!
FAQ
Can you really make crispy french fries in a microwave oven?
Yes, you can make crispy french fries in a microwave oven. With the right technique and a few simple steps, you can achieve delicious and crispy fries without the need for deep frying.
What do I need to make crispy french fries in a microwave oven?
To make crispy french fries in a microwave oven, you will need potatoes, vegetable oil, salt, and any other desired seasonings or spices. You will also need a microwave-safe plate or tray.
What is the technique to make crispy french fries in a microwave oven?
The technique involves cutting the potatoes into thin strips, soaking them in water to remove excess starch, patting them dry, tossing them in oil and seasonings, and then microwaving them on high heat in short intervals, flipping them over in between, until they become crispy and golden brown.
How long does it take to make crispy french fries in a microwave oven?
The total cooking time may vary depending on the wattage of your microwave and the thickness of the fries, but it usually takes about 10-15 minutes to make crispy french fries in a microwave oven.
Are crispy french fries made in a microwave oven healthier than deep-fried ones?
Yes, crispy french fries made in a microwave oven are generally healthier than deep-fried ones. They require less oil and retain less fat, making them a healthier alternative. However, it’s still important to consume them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
