What is the maximum temperature that should not be exceeded for water when preparing cut fries?

When preparing cut fries, the maximum temperature of water should not exceed 55 °F. Maintaining this temperature is essential for several reasons.

Firstly, soaking cut fries in water at the right temperature helps to remove excess starch from the potatoes. When the water is too warm, it can cause the starch to gelatinize, leading to fries that may not crisp up properly upon frying. A cooler soaking temperature allows for effective starch removal while preserving the quality of the potato.

Additionally, using water that is too warm could initiate cooking the fries before they are fried, which would compromise their texture and flavor. The goal is to prepare the fries in such a way that they achieve optimal consistency and taste when they finally hit the fryer.

In summary, 55 °F is the ideal maximum temperature to ensure that the cut fries remain firm and have the necessary properties for crisping, enhancing the overall quality of the final product.