Crispy Oven Baked Fries

Step 1

Scrub your potatoes and/or peel if desired. Cut the potatoes into 1/4"-1/2" thick fries.

Step 2

Place the potatoes in a microwave safe bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Heat in the microwave for 5 minutes for thinner cut fries and up to 7 minutes for thicker cut fries.

Step 3

CAREFULLY remove the plastic wrap and let the fries drain on several layers of paper towels.

Step 4

Meanwhile, position the oven rack to the lowest position and preheat the oven to 425ºF. Reserve 2 TBSP of the oil aside and then use the rest of the oil to liberally grease a half sheet pan or any metal baking sheet with sides. Put the pan in the oven to heat up.

Step 5

In a large bowl, whisk together the reserved 2 TBSP of oil, cornstarch, and salt. Blot the cooled fries dry with more paper towels and then put them into the bowl. Gently toss to coat the fries with the cornstarch mixture.

Step 6

Once the oven is very hot and the oil on the sheet pan is barely starting to smoke a bit, pull the oven rack out enough to access the pan and carefully pour the fries onto the heated pan. Use a metal spatula to move the fries around to a single layer. Push the rack back in and cook for 15 minutes. Pull the rack out again, flip the fries, and cook again for another 15-20 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Step 7

Immediately toss the fries in desired spices, herbs, toppings, or simply a little more salt when removing from the oven. Serve immediately.