Would You Like Fries with That?

I love a crispy french fry. Something about a fresh from the fryer potato, crisp on the outside, soft and pillowy on the inside is a great accompaniment to burgers, wings, almost anything, really.

Fries are tricky. When ordering out at a restaurant, they’re often loaded with salt straight from the fryer. I mean, that’s what makes them great, right?

But here are a few ways to reduce the amount of salt when you’re craving a crispy fry.

Make ’em from Scratch

A homemade french fry might be one of the easiest to make. You don’t need a fancy fry cutter (although it does help), but a sharp knife and some water to rinse off any extra starch.

I like to go all in with oil set to 350F degrees frying for about eight minutes, then removing and draining onto paper towels, increasing the temp to 425F and cooking for another two to three minutes till crispy. You can also use an oven or air fryer to cook to your desired tenderness, tossing at least once halfway.

This is also a great swap for sweet potato fries. Dust with some cinnamon after cooking to desired doneness (did I mention I like crispy?), and you’ve got a great side for a burger or filet.

Stick with Sticks

Most store bought fries are par fried, which makes them easier to cook at home in oil, the oven, or air fryer. But did you know most processed, “fries,” like tater tots have added sodium? It’s not just the seasoned fries with added salt.

I like a good steak fry which is a perfect vehicle for condiments. Some no salt ketchup or sriracha mustard and you’ve got an great edible delivery mechanism. Shoestring potatoes are great, too. 

If you do go for curly or seasoned fries, or tater tots, definitely stick to a single serving, which is usually eight to nine tots. I know, I know. But you’ll thank me later.

Order Salt Free

Many restaurants, including fast food chains, will honor a request for no salt added fries. Again, while the serving may be more than one, at least you can get the crispy fry without all the added salt. 

And yes, you can ADD salt to your unsalted fries. You are in control instead of the one manning the fry station. Just note, you’ll probably have to wait a bit, but they will likely be fresh fried.

Like store bought fries, try and limit any, “cajun,” or “seasoned,” fries from restaurants. If you really have the craving, order plain and make your own cajun mayo at home with a little old bay or Tony’s seasoning. It’ll be a lot less than what was added by the manufacturer.

What do you like to pair fries with most often?

#StaySalty

This content contains affiliate links in which we may get paid when you buy through our links, earning us a commission.