Cottage Fries: Crispy, Chunky Potato Perfection

Forget boring chips! These cottage fries are thick-cut, crispy, and utterly delicious. My easy recipe takes them to the next level! Give them a go!

Alright, let's dive into these bad boys!

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever get that craving for proper, comforting chips? the main event today is these cottage fries ! they're thick-cut, golden, and way better than anything you'd get from a takeaway.

Trust me, they're proper lush!

Brief Overview

These cottage fries aren't just any old chips. think rustic, think hearty! they're basically posh chips but without the posh price tag.

This recipe is easy-peasy, taking around 45 minutes from start to finish. it serves four hungry folks, perfect for a family dinner or a cheeky friday night treat.

Main Benefits

Honestly, homemade cottage fries are just good for the soul. plus, you know exactly what's going in them – no dodgy additives here! serve them up with a burger, a sunday roast, or just on their own with a dollop of mayo.

What makes these chips special is their chunky, irregular shape and golden colour, which brings back memories of childhood feasts.

I remember my nan making these after school, always such a treat.

What You Need to Make Cracking Cottage Fries

Right, before we start, let's gather all the bits and bobs. You'll need potatoes (duh!), oil for frying, and a few seasonings.

• Potatoes: About 2 lbs of Yukon Golds or Russets.
• Vegetable Oil: About 4 cups of it, enough for deep frying.
• Salt: A couple of teaspoons, or to taste.
• Black Pepper: Half a teaspoon, freshly ground if possible.
• Paprika (optional): A quarter teaspoon for a smoky kick.

Step-By-Step to Epic Cottage Fries

Alright, grab your apron and let's get started. This isn't rocket science, but there are a few tricks to getting these cottage fries just right.

First things first, peel your potatoes (or don't, it's up to you!). chop them into thick slices, then into chunky, irregular pieces.

No need to be perfect, we're going for rustic here. now, bung them in a pot of cold water and bring it to a boil.

Simmer for 5- 7 minutes until they're slightly tender. drain them well and spread them out on a tray lined with kitchen paper to dry.

Honestly, this is the most important step – you need them bone dry for maximum crispiness.

Next, heat your oil to 350° f ( 175° c). carefully add the potatoes in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.

Fry for 4- 5 minutes until they're pale golden. take them out and let them cool on some more kitchen paper for at least 15 minutes.

This second resting period is crucial. after the rest, crank up the heat to 375° f ( 190° c) and fry them again for 2- 3 minutes until they're deep golden brown and crispy.

Drain them on kitchen paper one last time and season immediately with salt, pepper, and paprika if you're feeling fancy.

Serve them up hot and enjoy. i'm telling you, you'll be hooked! these also go great as carnivore side dishes , so don't be shy to chow down!

Honestly, one time i tried to make these and didn't dry the potatoes properly. disaster! they were soggy and greasy.

Learn from my mistakes, folks. i've also heard from friends of mine who are on the keto and carnivore recipes diet that these can work out as a great cheat.

Be sure to track all calories and adjust the recipe where appropriate.

Variations and Final Thoughts

Fancy a bit of a twist? try tossing them with garlic and herbs after frying, or adding a pinch of chipotle powder for a smoky kick.

You could even try making sweet potato fries using the same method. and if you're feeling a bit adventurous you could even try making a cottage cheese chips air fryer version.

These low carb fries are amazing alone, or a perfect side dish. This might be the best recipe for the oven that you'll see.

Right, I'm off to make another batch. These are so good, they don't last long in my house! Enjoy!

Alright, let's talk about what you need to make these amazing cottage fries . it's simpler than you think, honestly! i remember once trying to make fries with the wrong kind of potatoes, what a disaster! never again.

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients

For these cottage fries , you'll need:

• Potatoes : 2 lbs (900g) of Yukon Gold or Russet. Good quality spuds are key. Honestly, a floury potato like Russet will give you the best fluffy interior. If they're going soft, they won't work!
• Vegetable Oil : 4 cups (950ml) for frying. You want something with a high smoke point.
• Salt : 2 tsp (10g) kosher salt. This is a must.
• Black Pepper : 1/2 tsp (1g) freshly ground. Freshly ground is always better, trust me.
• Paprika (optional): 1/4 tsp (0.5g) smoked paprika for a smoky kick.

Seasoning Notes

Right, so about the seasoning...

• Essential combo: Salt and pepper. Classic for a reason!
• Flavor enhancers: Smoked paprika is your friend. Seriously, it adds depth!
• Quick swaps: Don't have paprika? A pinch of cayenne adds a nice heat. You know?

Speaking of flavors, ever tried sprinkling rosemary on your fries? game changer! it makes them feel posh but they aren't.

For a carnivore twist use beef tallow. perfect for keto and carnivore recipes. forget those other low carb fries .

And if you're feeling adventurous, why not try some cottage cheese chips air fryer style? Not quite cottage fries , but still delicious! Also, check out the many Triscuit Recipes .

Equipment Needed

Okay, you won't need fancy gadgets.

• Large pot: For boiling the potatoes.
• Colander: For draining 'em.
• Thermometer: A deep-fry thermometer is ideal. This will ensure you fry at the correct temperature.
• Slotted spoon: For fishing out those golden beauties.
• Paper towels: To soak up the excess oil. Soggy fries? No, thank you!
• Large bowl: For tossing with seasoning.

Alternatives, eh? don't have a thermometer? a wooden spoon dipped in the oil should bubble when it's hot enough. it ain't perfect, but it works.

If you are one a keto diet avoid it.

Seriously, don’t let lack of fancy equipment stop you! i’ve made cottage fries with just a saucepan, a fork and an eye for knowing when they're just right.

It is better than freezer fries, that's a fact! these tasty carb free snacks will also serve as carnivore side dishes.

Did you know that the average potato travels over 1,000 miles from farm to plate? madness! let's give those spuds some love, yeah? these are not traditional french fries , but you will not be disappointed.

And, if you are trying to cut out the oil you can use the many recipes for the oven . also, there are some delicious keto fries recipes online.

Right, time to get cooking! you with me?

Right then, let's get crackin' on these cottage fries ! honestly, proper cottage fries are so much better than anything you'll get in a bag.

I'm talking crispy edges, fluffy insides, and that proper potato-y flavour. think of it as a comforting, rustic, easily achievable side.

I envision a recipe that's comforting, easily achievable, and a bit more interesting than your average chip shop fare.

Cottage Fries: Crispy, Chunky Potato Perfection

These aren't your skinny, limp fries, mate! cottage fries are all about embracing the rustic. thick-cut potatoes are parboiled, then fried to golden, crispy edges and a fluffy interior.

Seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and perhaps a touch of paprika, they're the ultimate comfort food, perfect alongside a juicy burger or a hearty roast.

They're also infinitely better than freezer fries, i can tell you that!

Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row

• Essential mise en place first, get your spuds sorted. you need 2 lbs (approximately 900g) yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled, although keeping the skin on is an option! then, grab 4 cups (950ml) of your favourite frying oil, some salt and pepper, and if you're feeling fancy, a 1/4 teaspoon (0.

  5g) of smoked paprika. easy peasy!

• Time-Saving Organization Tips Honestly, the biggest time saver is peeling the potatoes the day before! You know? Just keep them in water so they don't brown. It makes the whole process quicker.

• Safety Reminders Frying oil is hot ! Be extra careful when adding potatoes. Always lower them in gently. Keep a lid nearby in case of splatters.

Step-by-Step: Fry-tastic Instructions

1. Chop 'Em Up: Cut the spuds into thick slices (about 1/4-inch or 6mm). Then, cut those slices into 1-inch (2.5cm) irregular "cottage fry" shapes.
2. Parboil Time: Pop those potato pieces into a pot, cover with cold water, and bring it to a boil. Simmer for 5- 7 minutes , till they're slightly tender.
3. Drain and Dry: Dump them in a colander, then spread on a baking sheet with paper towels. Pat them dry. This is key for crispy fries! Let them air dry for 10 minutes.
4. Oil's Ready! Heat your oil in a pot or fryer to 350° F ( 175° C) . Use a thermometer!
5. First Fry: Gently add the potatoes in batches. Don't overcrowd! Fry for 4- 5 minutes , until pale golden.
6. Cool Down: Remove and place back on the baking sheet. Cool for at least 15 minutes. This resting period matters!
7. Second Fry: Crank the heat to 375° F ( 190° C) . Fry for 2- 3 minutes , till they're deeply golden and crispy.
8. Drain and Season: Remove, drain on paper towels, and season immediately with salt, pepper, and paprika if you're using it.

Pro Tips: Ace Those Fries!

• Double Fry Magic: Honestly, the double fry makes all the difference. The first fry cooks the potato through, and the second gets them super crispy.
• Don't Crowd the Pot: Too many potatoes at once drops the oil temp and makes for soggy fries.
• Avoid soggy fries Fry in batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping too low.
• Carnivore Side Dishes For a totally carnivore experience, fry these in tallow instead of vegetable oil! While these aren't exactly Carb Free Snacks , they're a satisfying side. And while you're at it why not try them in the Cottage Cheese Chips Air Fryer . You can even adapt these recipes for the oven .

And there you have it! a solid foundation for cracking cottage fries !. while they might not be strictly keto fries or a carnivore french fries , they're a darn tasty treat! they're nothing like triscuit recipes , but hey, variety is the spice of life! and if you are looking for keto and carnivore recipes , you might try using almond flour or pork rind breading.

Right, i'm off for a cuppa and a jaffa cake. cheerio!

Alright, let's talk shop about these cottage fries ! you've got the basic recipe down, which is fab. but now, let's zhuzh it up a bit, yeah? we can make it even better.

It all comes down to the details.

Recipe Notes: Get That Extra Oomph

Honestly, these are my little tips and tricks to make the best cottage fries . Think of it as your secret weapon. It's all about taking good food to the next level.

Serving Suggestions: Plating and Presentation Power

You know, presentation is everything! Don't just chuck 'em on a plate. Think restaurant style. A wire basket lined with newspaper? Sorted.

Want a bit of fancy? a swirl of homemade aioli on the side does the trick. i think that these cottage fries pairs with a good old burger.

Or maybe some keto fries !

Storage Tips: Keep 'Em Fresh, Mate!

Right, listen up. Nobody likes soggy chips. If you have leftovers (unlikely, I know), keep them in the fridge. In an airtight container of course.

Honestly, reheating them is a bit tricky. They are never as good. But a quick blast in the oven can do the trick.

And now, listen up! I would not be freezing these. Honestly, it's just not worth it. They get all weird and watery. Just make a fresh batch. Simples.

Variations: Spice It Up (or Down)

Fancy a bit of a twist? How about some garlic and rosemary? Lush. Or maybe a sprinkle of chilli flakes for a kick.

Now, thinking about those who are into low-carb and looking into recipes like Carnivore French Fries or even Cottage Cheese Chips Air Fryer to have them as Carb Free Snacks .

These could potentially be adapted with some experimentation, like using root vegetables for a Low Carb Fries alternative! If you want to create a dish from the Keto And Carnivore Recipes family, you could try using Carnivore Side Dishes !

Nutrition Basics: A Bit of Goodness (Sort Of)

Okay, let's be real. These aren't exactly health food. But they are potatoes, so there's some potassium in there.

The great thing about this recipe is that it is cooked and fried, giving recipes for the oven an alternative!

Everything in moderation, right? And let's be honest, sometimes you just need a good cottage fries . It's good for the soul.

So there you have it. a few extra tips to make your cottage fries epic. now, get cooking, and enjoy! oh, and don't forget to tag me in your pictures.

I wanna see your creations! get experimenting!

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly are cottage fries, and how are they different from regular chips?

Cottage fries are thick-cut, irregularly shaped potato pieces that are fried until crispy. Unlike your typical chip shop chips, they're not uniform in size and shape, giving them a rustic, homemade feel. They're a bit like the potato equivalent of that slightly wonky homemade jam – full of character!

Why do I need to parboil the potatoes before frying for cottage fries?

Parboiling is key to getting that perfect balance of fluffy interior and crispy exterior. It partially cooks the potatoes, ensuring they're cooked through during the frying process. Think of it like giving them a head start in the race to deliciousness! It prevents them from being raw in the middle or burning on the outside.

Can I bake cottage fries instead of frying them to make them healthier?

While you can bake cottage fries, they won't achieve quite the same level of crispiness as when fried. If you're going down the baking route, toss the parboiled and dried potatoes with a bit of oil and spread them out on a baking sheet. Bake at a high temperature (around 400°F/200°C) until golden brown, flipping halfway through. They will be healthier, but they may lack that satisfying crunch.

Help! My cottage fries aren't crispy – what am I doing wrong?

Several factors can lead to soggy fries. Make sure you're patting the potatoes completely dry after parboiling – moisture is the enemy of crispiness! Also, don't overcrowd the pot when frying, as this lowers the oil temperature. Finally, ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for both the first and second fry. A deep-fry thermometer is your best friend here!

How long can I store leftover cottage fries, and how do I reheat them?

Leftover cottage fries are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, the best method is to spread them out on a baking sheet and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and slightly crispy. Microwaving will make them soggy, so avoid that if you can! They will never be quite the same as fresh, though, so try to make only as much as you'll eat.

Can I use different seasonings on my cottage fries other than salt, pepper, and paprika?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to find your perfect flavour combination. Garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs like rosemary or thyme, or even a sprinkle of chilli flakes can all add a delicious twist. For something a bit different, try tossing them with a pre-made seasoning blend like Old Bay or a Cajun spice mix. Get creative, and have a right go at it!

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