Hand Cut Fries

By Beckylynn

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon + 1/4 teaspoon salt, divided
• 2 medium baking potatoes (approximately 8 ounces each)
• 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil

Preparation

Step 1

Place a large pot of water over high heat. Add one teaspoon of salt and bring the water to a rapid boil. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Scrub the potatoes well to remove any dirt. First cut the faces off one potato to create a flat surface on 4 sides. Some skin will remain on the sides and the ends. (Do not peel the skin from the potato). Discard the faces and cut the remaining potato into 1/3-inch thick sticks. Repeat with second potato. Add the sticks to the pot and boil them for 3 minutes (not longer or they will break) then drain them. Let them cool for 5 minutes. Transfer the par-boiled fries to a medium bowl. Add the olive oil and salt and, using your hands, toss them until they are coated. Then place them on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer so they do not touch. Put the sheet in the oven and bake them for 12 minutes, flip them, and cook them an addition 12-16 minutes or until they are crisp on the outsides and lightly browned. Serve immediately. Makes 2 servings.