What is the proper technique for cooking fries?

The proper technique for cooking fries involves pre-cooking them until they are slightly hard, followed by frying them until they are crisp. This method allows the fries to achieve the desired texture and flavor.

Initially cooking the fries at a lower temperature softens the potatoes without fully cooking them, allowing for even cooking when they are subsequently fried at a higher temperature. The first cooking phase helps to create the right moisture content and foundation for the fries, ensuring that when they are fried a second time, they develop a crispy, golden exterior while remaining fluffy on the inside. This two-step process is crucial in delivering the signature texture that Five Guys fries are known for.

Other options do not provide the same balance of softness and crispness. For instance, simply frying until golden brown may result in uneven cooking and undercooked interiors. Soaking in cold water can help remove excess starch but is not a necessary step for fries that are already cut to the right thickness. Boiling prior to frying can change the texture of the fries and is not commonly done in preparing Five Guys-style fries.