Ingredients

• About 8 cups vegetable oil
• 2 pounds medium baking (russet) potatoes, peeled
• Equipment: a deep-fat thermometer; an adjustable-blade slicer fitted with french fry or large (1/4-inch) julienne blade
• Accompaniment: mayonnaise

Instructions

1. Heat 1 1/2 inches oil to 325°F in a 5-quart heavy pot over medium heat. While oil is heating, cut potatoes with slicer into 1/4-inch sticks.
2. Fry potatoes in 5 batches for 1 1/2 minutes per batch (potatoes will not be golden) and transfer with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain. (Return oil to 325°F between batches.)
3. Heat oil to 350°F. Refry potatoes in 5 batches until golden and crisp, about 5 minutes per batch, and transfer to clean paper towels to drain. (Return oil to 350°F between batches.)
4. Season fries with salt.