There’s nothing more disappointing than overnight leftovers that have turned soggy. But there are a few cooking tricks that can bring these bland potatoes to life. Say goodbye to soggy potatoes and turn mushy potatoes into crispy potatoes again with our guide! So don’t throw away those soggy potatoes just yet—give them a second chance to shine on our plate and excite our taste buds. Because we can never get enough of this tasty snack.
Can you make soggy fries crispy again?
Yes, you absolutely can! While fixing soggy fries may seem impossible, with the right technique, you can bring back their crispiness and flavor. It’s all about reviving those potatoes and bringing back their inherent crunchiness.
Also read: 5 best ways to keep your fried food crispy for longer
Here are some easy ways you can make wet fries crispy:
1. Put them in the oven:
Heat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Spread the wet fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-10 minutes, or until the fries are heated through and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
2. The Trusted Double Fry Method:
This classic technique involves frying the fries twice to achieve maximum crispiness. Start by heating the oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot. Fry the soaked fries in batches for 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oil and let them drain on a plate covered with a paper towel. Once all the fries are fried, increase the oil temperature to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Fry the fries a second time in batches for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they reach the level of crispiness you desire. Drain them again on a paper towel and salt them immediately.
3. Try the air fryer method:
If you have an air fryer, this method is quick and convenient. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Place the wet fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, being careful not to crowd them too much. Cook for 5-8 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally so they crisp evenly. The hot air circulating through the fries will help revive their crispiness without the need for extra oil.
Also read: 5 deep frying hacks every novice cook should keep in mind
An air fryer makes it easy to make crispy food. Image credit: iStock
4. Pan fry them:
Heat a wok or frying pan over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. When the oil is hot, add the soaked fries in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the pan and pat dry on a paper towel before serving.
Whether you opt for the oven, double fry method, air fryer, or pan fry method, a few extra steps can make a big difference in turning leftover fries into a delicious snack or side dish.
