Frozen chips are a convenient way to enjoy crispy, homemade fries anytime. By preparing and freezing them in advance, you can save time while ensuring they stay fresh and flavorful. The process involves selecting the right potatoes, cutting them into fries, blanching, and freezing them properly to maintain their texture. Here is how to make frozen chips.
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes (Russet or any starchy variety)
- Cold water
- Salt (optional)
- Vegetable oil (for frying or baking)
Instructions
- Preparing the Potatoes
Start by peeling the potatoes if you prefer skinless chips, or leave the skin on for a rustic look. Rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch. Cut the potatoes into uniform strips, about 1 cm thick, for even cooking.
- Blanching the Chips
Blanching helps preserve the color and texture of the chips. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Drop the potato strips into the boiling water and let them cook for about 3-5 minutes until slightly tender but not fully cooked. Remove them from the water and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice-cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Drying the Chips
Drain the chilled chips and spread them out on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture, as this will prevent ice crystals from forming during freezing.
- Freezing the Chips
Arrange the chips in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Place the tray in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until the chips are firm. This prevents them from sticking together when stored. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed freezer bag or airtight container and store them for up to 3 months.
- Cooking the Frozen Chips
To cook frozen chips, you can deep fry, bake, or air fry them straight from the freezer.
- Deep Frying: Heat oil to 180°C (350°F) and fry the chips for about 4-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
- Baking: Preheat the oven to 220°C (430°F), spread the chips on a baking tray, drizzle with oil, and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and cook the chips for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally.
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