Belgian French Fries with Mayonnaise

When you think of comfort food, nothing quite compares to the delightful crunch and satisfying taste of Belgian French fries. These double-fried treasures are a staple in Belgium and are often enjoyed with a generous dollop of creamy mayonnaise. Get ready to indulge in this classic dish that brings the taste of Europe right to your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create authentic Belgian French fries paired with a rich mayonnaise that will elevate your fries to a whole new level.

Top Reasons to Make Belgian French Fries with Mayonnaise

Belgian French fries are more than just a side dish; they are an experience. Here are some compelling reasons to whip up this delicious treat at home:

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of perfectly fried potatoes and creamy mayonnaise creates an explosion of flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes gourmet.
• Customizable: You can easily add your favorite herbs and spices to the mayonnaise for a personalized touch.
• Fun to Make: The frying process can be a fun activity to do with family or friends.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual snack or a party treat, Belgian French fries with mayonnaise fit the bill.

Gather These Ingredients

Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 large potatoes (such as Sebago, Coliban, Golden Delight, or Kennebec)
• 8 cups vegetable oil
• Sea salt to taste
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1-2 egg yolks (1 larger or 2 smaller ones, at room temperature)
• 1 tsp mustard
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• 1 cup neutral flavored oil (such as sunflower, grapeseed, canola, etc.)
• Salt to taste
• 1 bulb garlic (whole)

Recommended Tools

To make your Belgian French fries with mayonnaise, gather the following tools:

• Frying Pot or Deep Fryer: Essential for achieving the perfect fry.
• Thermometer: Helps to monitor the oil temperature for optimal frying.
• Slotted Spoon: Ideal for removing the fries from the hot oil.
• Mixing Bowl: For preparing the homemade mayonnaise.
• Sharp Knife: Needed for cutting the potatoes into fries.

The Method for Belgian French Fries with Mayonnaise

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Belgian French fries with mayonnaise:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing and peeling the potatoes. Cut them into thick strips, about 1/2 inch wide, ensuring they are of even size for consistent cooking.

Step 2: Pre-soak the Fries

Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This helps to remove excess starch and results in a crispier fry.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large frying pot, heat the 8 cups of vegetable oil to 325°F (163°C). A thermometer is highly recommended to ensure accuracy.

Step 4: First Fry

Once the oil is hot, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with paper towels. Carefully add a batch of fries to the oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 4-5 minutes or until the fries are just tender but not browned. Remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Let Them Rest

Allow the fries to cool for about 30 minutes. This resting period is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

Step 6: Second Fry

Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the cooled potatoes again in batches for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels again.

Step 7: Season the Fries

While the fries are still hot, sprinkle with sea salt to taste.

Step 8: Make the Mayonnaise

In a mixing bowl, combine the egg yolks, mustard, and white vinegar. Using a whisk, mix them until combined. Gradually drizzle in the cup of neutral oil while whisking continuously until the mixture thickens. Season with salt to taste.

Step 9: Serve

Serve your crispy Belgian French fries hot with a generous side of homemade mayonnaise for dipping. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying crunch!

International Equivalents

If you’re looking to enjoy this dish in different styles or variations, consider these international equivalents:

• Pommes Frites: The French version of fries, typically served with a variety of sauces.
• Chips: In the UK, fries are known as chips and are often served with fish.
• Patatas Bravas: A Spanish dish featuring fried potatoes served with a spicy sauce.
• French Fries: The American take, usually served with ketchup.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Even the best chefs can run into issues while making Belgian French fries. Here are some common pitfalls and how to fix them:

• Fries are soggy: Ensure you properly dry the potatoes after soaking and allow them to rest before the second fry.
• Oil temperature is too low: Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature for both frying stages.
• Overcrowding the pot: Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking.
• Mayonnaise is too thin: If it doesn’t thicken, try adding more oil slowly while whisking vigorously.

Best Ways to Store

If you have leftovers (though they are often too delicious to have any!), here’s how to store them properly:

• Fries: Allow them to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to restore some crispiness.
• Mayonnaise: Store any leftover mayonnaise in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Quick Questions

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Absolutely! While Sebago, Coliban, Golden Delight, or Kennebec are ideal, you can experiment with other varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold for different textures and flavors.

Why do I need to soak the fries?

Soaking the fries helps to remove excess starch, which results in a crispier finished product.

Can I make the mayonnaise ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mayonnaise a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

What can I serve with the fries besides mayonnaise?

While mayonnaise is traditional, you can serve your fries with a variety of sauces such as ketchup, aioli, or even a spicy sriracha dip.

If you loved making Belgian French fries with mayonnaise, you might also enjoy these delicious recipes:

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the insights and steps to create your very own Belgian French fries with mayonnaise, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! This dish is perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a delicious snack. With practice, you’ll master the art of frying and creating the perfect mayonnaise, making this dish a staple in your home kitchen. Enjoy every crispy bite and the creamy dip that accompanies it – it’s a match made in culinary heaven!