Oven-Fried Potato Fries (Pommes Frites)

Oven-Fried Potato Fries (Pommes Frites)

Serves 6

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Kosher salt (to taste)

Directions

  1. If you have a convection setting on your oven, this is a good time to use it. Set the temperature at 400°F and allow the fan to circulate the hot air. This will result in more evenly browned and crispy fries.
  2. Preheat oven to 425°F.
  3. Wash potatoes. Peel if desired, but it's not necessary. Cut into 1/4-inch thick strips; try to make consistent in size so they cook evenly. Place in water to prevent oxidation and remove excess starch. Soak at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight refrigerated).
  4. Drain potatoes and dry well with a clean towel. It's important that the potatoes are very dry. Toss with olive oil. Spread evenly in a single layer on a couple of sheet pans, allowing space for air to move between fries so they can brown fully. Sprinkle with salt.
  5. Bake 30 minutes. Rotate pans and check for doneness. Continue cooking another 10 to 20 minutes, checking every 5 minutes or so. The should be golden and crisp.
  6. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with additional salt while fries are still hot.