Proper Pub-Style Homemade Chips (The Real Deal!)

Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a proper chippy tea? We all love homemade fries , right? Forget the freezer aisle; this crispy french fry recipe will blow your mind.
Brief Overview
These homemade french style chips are a british pub classic. this best steak fries recipe is surprisingly doable at home.
It is a bit of a project but so so worth it. it takes about an hour but don't stress, it's all pretty chill.
It will yield four portions of total deliciousness.
Main Benefits
You know what? you control the salt! these are way better for you than best frozen fries (not really, but close enough).
These are perfect for a friday night in. seriously, how to make crispy home fries ? this recipe will teach you exactly that.
Right then, let’s talk spuds, shall we? These aren’t just any old homemade fry recipe . We're after proper pub vibes. So, grab those Russet Fries and let's get cracking!
Ingredients & Equipment: Get Ready to Fry!
Alright, so you wanna make some proper homemade fries ? ace choice! forget those best frozen fries . let's talk about what you'll need.
Honestly, it’s not that complicated. you don’t need fancy equipment, just a few essentials.
Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Fry
- Potatoes: 2 lbs (900g) of Russet or Maris Piper. Trust me, floury is the way. We're looking for potatoes that are firm, with no green spots or sprouts. Green potatoes? Nope! Those can taste bitter.
- Oil: About 6 cups (1.4 liters) of vegetable or peanut oil. You need enough to submerge those Russet Fries . The oil should be clear and odourless. No funky smells!
- Salt: To taste. Sea salt flakes are brill for that extra bit of poshness, but regular table salt works too.
Seasoning Notes: Elevating Your Fry Game
For essential spice combinations? Simple is key. Salt is king! But a little goes a long way. You can add sea salt flakes after they are already finished, as a garnish!.
Want a flavour enhancer? Try malt vinegar at the table. Proper British style, innit? For a quick substitution, seasoned salt can add a whole new dimension. It gives it more personality.
Equipment Needed: Not Much, Promise!
- Large pot or deep fryer. For proper frying French fries on stove .
- Slotted spoon or spider. Essential for rescuing your homemade fries from the hot oil. A regular spoon will NOT do!
- Thermometer. A deep fry thermometer is ideal, but a candy thermometer works in a pinch. This is a MUST for the Crispy French Fry Recipe .
- Large bowl. For that all-important soaking.
- Paper towels. Gotta drain that oil off!
For alternatives, a cast iron skillet can be a nice alternative to a pot, if you want to make cast iron french fries , this method might require more oil and attention.
If you're feeling healthy, you can even try air-fried fries homemade , though they won't be quite the same.
So, there you have it. now you have the equipment ready to go. now we can start making real homemade fries ! so, no need to buy that best frozen fries .
I am sure yours are going to be a fresh fries homemade !
Alright, mate! let's talk homemade fries . forget those sad, soggy excuses for chips you get from the freezer section. we're making proper, pub-worthy chips today.
Think golden, crispy, and fluffy inside, just like your nan (probably) used to make. honestly, once you've tasted proper fresh fries homemade , you won't go back!
Cooking Method: The Double Fry
This isn't just any old homemade fry recipe . we're using the double fry method , the secret to chip perfection. it might sound like a faff, but trust me, it's worth the effort.
Prep Steps to Chip tastic Success
First things first: mise en place ! get your potatoes sorted. we're talking russet fries or maris piper, peeled and cut into chunky chips, about half an inch thick.
Now, soak those bad boys in cold water for at least 30 minutes , or even up to 2 hours .
This pulls out the starch, giving you super crispy french fry recipe . drain them thoroughly and pat them dry.
Safety time: hot oil is no joke! always be careful when frying.
step-by-step to Golden Goodness
Right, let's get frying!
- Heat your oil (vegetable or peanut works best) to 300° F ( 150° C) .
- Fry the chips in batches for 5- 7 minutes . They should be soft, not browned. This is the "blanching" stage.
- Remove and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- Now, crank up the heat to 375° F ( 190° C) .
- Fry them again for 3- 5 minutes , until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and season with salt.
Pro Tips and Tricks
Want that best steak fries recipe level of awesome? don't overcrowd the fryer, it lowers the oil temp. trust me.
Also, a sneaky trick is to add some rosemary sprigs to the oil for infused cast iron french fries . mmm! the most common mistake? not drying the chips properly.
Wet chips = soggy chips. if you want healthy baked fries , you can bake them after the first fry, but they won't be quite as good.
So, there you have it! proper pub-style homemade fries . serve 'em up with some fish, a burger, or just a dollop of ketchup.
Enjoy! and don't forget to share your chip triumphs (and disasters!) with me. cheers!
Recipe Notes: Unlock the Ultimate Chip Experience
Alright, you've got the recipe for proper pub-style homemade fries , sorted! but before you get those russet fries sizzling, let's chat about a few extra bits and bobs that'll take your chip game from "meh" to "bloody brilliant!".
Honestly, these are the bits that separate the good homemade fry recipe from the best .
Plating and Presentation: Chip Shop Chic
Presentation matters, even for chips! forget just dumping them on a plate. for true pub vibes, serve your fresh fries homemade in a cone lined with newspaper (food safe, obviously!).
A sprinkle of sea salt flakes adds a touch of class. i once tried using a mini metal fryer basket felt right fancy, you know? if you're feeling adventurous, homemade aioli in a ramekin is a game changer.
Storage Secrets: Rescue Mission for Leftover Fries
Okay, so let's be real, leftover homemade fries are a rarity. but if you do find yourself with a few stragglers, here's the drill.
For refrigeration, pop them in an airtight container and get them in the fridge within 2 hours. they'll last for a day or two, tops.
Reheating best frozen fries involves blasting them in a hot oven ( 400° f/ 200° c) for about 5- 10 minutes to crisp them up again.
Microwave? nah, mate, just don't!
Freezing isn't ideal for these crispy french fry recipe . they'll lose their texture. but if you must , flash freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag.
Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.
Variations: Chip Customization Station
Fancy a twist? how about some healthy baked fries ? simply toss your cut potatoes in olive oil, season well, and bake at 400° f ( 200° c) until golden and crispy .
It isn't quite the same as deep frying, but it's a good option. for a dietary adaptation, you could substitute regular potatoes for sweet potatoes and get some awesome sweet potato fries.
The same method applies, just adjust your cooking times.
Nutrition Nuggets: Guilt Free(ish) Indulgence
Let's keep it real, homemade fries aren't exactly health food. but air-fried fries homemade can cut down on the oil.
They do contain carbs and fat. however, they also provide some fiber and potassium from the potatoes. everything in moderation, eh?
Right, that's all folks. Whether you are trying cast iron french fries , frying french fries on stove , deep fryer french fries , or something like 5 guys fries recipe , wendys fries recipe or if you are wondering how to cut fries or how to make french fries on the stove , don’t be afraid to experiment and have a laugh!
Now go forth and create chip shop magic!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my homemade fries soggy? What did I do wrong?
Soggy fries are a common woe! The biggest culprits are often not soaking the potatoes long enough to remove excess starch, overcrowding the pot during frying (which lowers the oil temperature), and not frying at the correct temperature.
Remember that soaking for at least 30 minutes is important, and work in batches like you're waiting for a bus in London patience is key!
What kind of potatoes are best for homemade fries, and why?
Floury potatoes like Russets or Maris Pipers are your best bet for achieving that classic pub-style chip. These varieties have a higher starch content, which contributes to the fluffy interior and crispy exterior that we all crave.
Using waxy potatoes is a bit like trying to make Yorkshire puddings with plain flour it just won't turn out right, mate!
Can I make homemade fries in an air fryer?
Absolutely! While the recipe is tailored for deep frying, you can adapt it for an air fryer. Soak and dry the potatoes as instructed, then toss them lightly with a little oil before air frying at around 380°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
They won't be quite the same as the proper pub-style chips, but it's a healthier and quicker alternative like a cheeky Nando's instead of a full roast dinner!
How do I store leftover homemade fries, and how do I reheat them so they're crispy again?
Leftover chips are always a bit of a gamble, aren't they? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat and try to reclaim some of that crispiness, spread them out on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
An air fryer also works well for reheating just remember to check them regularly to avoid burning. They won't be exactly the same, but better than binning them!
How can I make flavored homemade fries?
Get creative, why don't you? You can toss the cooked fries with different seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. For a more intense flavor, infuse the oil with rosemary sprigs or garlic cloves during the first fry.
Just remember to remove them before the second fry to prevent burning. It’s all about experimenting to find your perfect flavour, just like finding your favourite biscuit to dunk in your tea!
What's the nutritional value of homemade fries, and are there ways to make them healthier?
Homemade fries, while delicious, are relatively high in calories and fat. Using a healthier oil like avocado oil can help slightly. Air frying is also a great way to reduce the fat content significantly. You could also leave the skins on for added fiber, just make sure to scrub them well first.
Just like a proper Sunday roast, it's okay to enjoy them in moderation, just don't go overboard!
Proper Pub Style Homemade Chips The Real Deal

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 5g |