If you’ve ever read the bottom of a french fry container, you’ve probably seen a line that says, “Eat immediately.” And that’s true. Cold, leftover french fries are pretty unappealing and unappealing. These fries become soggy and lifeless, while the reheated version has crispy outside and fluffy inside. Part of the problem is that they’re difficult to reheat, going from “wow!” to “meh!” very quickly. You might be surprised to learn that not all fries reheat the same. But there’s good news. You can get those golden fries back in no time. The secret lies in what kind of fries you use and how you reheat them. So, which french fries are best for reheating? Let’s find out!
Also read: Pan frying vs deep frying – what’s the difference? Which method makes your food crispier?
Thick fries or thin fries: Which is better for reheating?
And the winner is… thick fries! Thick-cut fries weigh more and are thicker in size, which means they retain moisture. This keeps the inside soft and fluffy while the outside crisps up nicely. But that’s not the case with thin fries. Thin fries are often cut into thin slices for deep-fryer efficiency. So, when they’re reheated, they can lose moisture and end up too dry and too crispy. If you’re planning on saving some fries for later, thick-cut fries are your best option because they can handle the reheating process and still taste amazing.
Reheat fries 4 different ways:
1. Oven
If you have an oven, you can use it to reheat fries. Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius and spread your fries on a baking tray. Make sure they are in a single layer, as overcrowding can lead to uneven heating. Keep them in for 5-10 minutes until they are golden and crispy. Honestly, the oven works great for thick fries, ensuring they regain their crispiness while remaining fluffy on the inside. Also, the oven is perfect if you are reheating a large batch and want it to taste like freshly baked.
2. Stovetop
If you want to fry the traditional way, heat your fries on the stovetop. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once hot, add your fries to the pan and stir for 2-3 minutes. The oil will help return the fried fries to that crispy texture we all love! This method is best for a small batch as it is quick to make and heats evenly. To amp up the flavor, simply add a pinch of chaat masala for a Desi twist!
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3. Air Fryer
If you have an air fryer, this is a great option for you! Preheat your air fryer to 180 degrees Celsius, spread your fries in the basket and let them heat for 3-5 minutes. You don’t need to add extra oil, as the air fryer will crisp up the fries without any oil. This method is perfect when you’re in a hurry but still want satisfying results. Plus, it’s a healthy and hassle-free way to crisp up your fries.
4. Microwave
Using a microwave to reheat your fries should be your last option. This is because fries can become soggy in the microwave. But if you still want to use this appliance, there is a trick! Simply place a paper towel underneath the fries to absorb excess moisture and microwave them at 20-30 second intervals. Once done, eat them quickly while they are still crispy.
Also read:IDLI Fries, Poha Fries and More, 5 Unique Fries Recipes You Must Try
