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McDonald's Fries Recipe: Secret to Crispy Golden Shoestrings

Authentic McDonald's Style Fries (Copycat)

Prep Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs Russet potatoes Large, peeled
  • 4 cups Beef tallow For frying (can substitute with neutral vegetable oil for modern version)
  • 1/4 cup Corn syrup Or white sugar; aids in golden browning
  • 2 tbsp White vinegar Helps potatoes hold their shape
  • 1 tbsp Fine sea salt To taste
  • 4 cups Water Hot, for the brine mixture

Instructions
 

  • Peel the potatoes and cut them into 1/4-inch shoestrings using a mandate or sharp knife.
  • Soak the cut potatoes in a large bowl of cold water for at least 1 hour to remove surface starch.
  • In a separate bowl, mix the hot water, corn syrup (or sugar), and vinegar until dissolved. Drain the cold water from the potatoes and submerge them in this brine for 15 minutes.
  • Remove potatoes from the brine and dry them thoroughly with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
  • Heat the beef tallow (or oil) in a deep fryer or Dutch oven to 300°F (150°C).
  • Working in batches, par-fry the potatoes for 60 to 90 seconds. They should be soft and limp but strictly not browned.
  • Remove fries and drain on a wire rack. Let them cool, then arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 2 hours (or overnight).
  • Heat the fat to 400°F (205°C). Fry the frozen potatoes in batches for 3 to 4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  • Transfer immediately to a bowl lined with paper towels and toss with fine sea salt while hot.