Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare Potatoes

   Take 3 medium-sized potatoes. Wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt. Using a peeler, remove the skin from all the potatoes.

2. 2.Cut Potatoes into Strips

   Cut the peeled potatoes into long, even strips. First, trim the top and bottom of each potato to create flat surfaces. Then, slice the potato into medium-thick pieces, and finally cut these pieces into uniform long strips, similar to the size of French fries. Ensure the strips are not too thin (to prevent burning) or too thick (to ensure even cooking).

3. 3.Wash and Drain

   Place the cut potato strips into a bowl of water. Wash them thoroughly by hand to remove excess starch. This step is important to prevent the potatoes from turning black and to ensure they become crispy when fried. Drain the water completely after washing.

4. 4.Steam Potatoes

   Lightly grease an idli plate with a little oil. Arrange the potato strips evenly in the idli plate compartments. Place the idli plate into an idli cooker with boiling water. Cover and steam the potato strips on medium flame for exactly 30 seconds. After 30 seconds, switch off the flame and remove the idli plate. Let the potato strips cool down completely.

5. 5.First Fry

   Heat cooking oil in a pan on high flame until it's very hot. Then, reduce the flame to medium. Carefully add the completely cooled potato strips into the hot oil. Fry them on medium flame, stirring occasionally, until they are about 80% cooked and the sizzling sound of the oil reduces. The potatoes will still be pale in color. Remove the partially fried potatoes from the oil and place them in a colander or on a plate. Let them cool down completely.

6. 6.Second Fry for Crispiness

   Once the partially fried potatoes have cooled completely, reheat the same oil on medium flame. Add the cooled potato strips back into the hot oil. Fry them, stirring continuously, until they turn a beautiful golden brown and become perfectly crispy. This double-frying method ensures maximum crispiness. Remove the golden-brown French fries from the oil.

7. 7.Season and Serve

   Transfer the hot French fries to a bowl. Sprinkle salt to taste and 1 teaspoon of chili powder over them. Gently shake and toss the bowl to ensure the salt and chili powder coat all the fries evenly. Serve immediately with ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce.