Arby’s curly fries. The very words conjure images of perfectly seasoned, gloriously crispy potato spirals, a fast-food side dish that has achieved legendary status.
But what makes them so uniquely delicious? And more importantly, can you recreate that magic at home? The answer, my friends, is a resounding yes.
This article will delve into the secrets behind Arby’s curly fry phenomenon, providing you with pro tips and tricks to ensure your homemade version rivals (and perhaps even surpasses!) the restaurant’s original.
What are Arby’s Curly Fries?
Arby’s curly fries are a unique fast-food offering, distinct from traditional straight-cut fries. Their signature spiral shape maximises surface area, leading to an unparalleled level of crispiness. The seasoning blend is also key, adding a savoury depth that elevates the simple potato to iconic status.
While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret, through experimentation and culinary deduction, we’ve cracked the code to bring you a remarkably close approximation.
Pro Tips for Perfectly Crispy Curly Fries
- Potato Choice: Russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content, which contributes to fluffy interiors and extra crispy exteriors. Avoid using waxy potatoes.
- Soaking: Soaking the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes helps remove excess starch, preventing sticking and promoting even browning.
- Double Frying: This technique is crucial for achieving ultimate crispiness. The first fry cooks the potatoes through, while the second fry creates a shatteringly crisp exterior.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is paramount. Use a thermometer to ensure your oil stays between 325°F and 350°F (160 °C and 175°C) for optimal results.
- Seasoning: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! A generous coating of salt, along with other spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, will bring out the best flavour in your fries.
- Resting: Allow the fries to rest briefly on a wire rack after frying to drain excess oil and ensure optimal crispness before serving.
What to Serve With Arby’s Curly Fries
Arby’s curly fries are incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to elevate your fry game:
- Arby’s Sauce (copycat recipe available on our site!): The perfect pairing. Our copycat recipe delivers an incredibly close approximation.
- Classic Burger: The salty, crispy fries provide the perfect counterpoint to a juicy burger.
- Dipping Sauces: Ranch, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or even a spicy mayo all work wonderfully.
- Sandwiches: Serve them alongside your favourite roast beef or turkey sandwiches.
- Chilli Cheese Fries: Top the fries with chilli and cheese for a hearty meal.
Ingredient Substitutes
While russet potatoes are recommended, you can experiment with other potato varieties. You can also adjust the seasoning blend to your taste preferences. If you don’t have paprika, a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick. Experiment and find your perfect combination!
Final Thoughts
Mastering the art of the perfect curly fry takes practice, but the reward is well worth the effort. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can enjoy the delicious taste of Arby’s curly fries from the comfort of your own home. Now go forth and fry!
The Ultimate Copycat Arby’s Curly Fries Recipe: Perfectly Crispy Every Time
Ingredients
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into curly fry shapes (spiralizer recommended)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
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Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and cut the potatoes into curly fry shapes using a spiralizer or a sharp knife. Soak the potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes.
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First Fry
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 325°F (160°C). Fry the potatoes in batches for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly softened.
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Season and Second Fry
Remove the fries from the oil and season generously with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Return the fries to the oil, increasing the temperature to 350°F (175°C). Fry for another 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
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Drain and Serve
Remove the fries from the oil and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 3g
Recipe Video
Frequently Asked Questions
Vegetable oil or canola oil are excellent choices for frying curly fries due to their high smoke points.
While fresh potatoes are ideal, you can use frozen shoestring potatoes. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before frying.
Allow the fries to rest on a wire rack after frying to drain excess oil. Reheating them in a preheated oven is also a good way to retain their crispness.
The key is double frying! The first fry cooks the potatoes, the second fry crisps them up perfectly.