Why Chefs Choose Idaho® Russets for Fries and How to Make Them at Home

In celebration of National French Fry Day, Idaho® Potatoes shares pro tips and prizes with fry fans everywhere.

Eagle, Idaho, July 10, 2025 — French fries are the side dish that stole America’s heart, and July 11 is when they get their golden moment. To celebrate National French Fry Day, the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) is spotlighting what truly makes the best fry: the Idaho® Russet, trusted by chefs and home cooks alike.

Widely regarded as the gold standard for French fries, Idaho Russets are known for their naturally high starch and low moisture content — a combination that delivers the crispy exterior and fluffy center fry lovers crave. Their consistent texture and performance have made them a staple in professional kitchens and home fryers across the country.

To mark the occasion, IPC is sharing exclusive tips from resident expert Dr. Potato, and launching the Ultimate Fry Lover’s Giveaway to reward fans who take their spuds seriously.

Dr. Potato’s Top 5 Tips for Fry Perfection:

  1. Start with the Right Spud: Idaho® Russet are the gold standard. Their high starch and low moisture levels create crispy outsides and fluffy insides.
  2. Cut Even and Clean: Use a sharp knife or fry cutter to keep sizes consistent. That means even cooking and fewer floppy fries.
  3. Wash, Rinse, and Soak: Rinse off dirt, then soak the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This pulls out excess starch and sets you up for maximum crispiness.
  4. Double Fry for the Win: Blanch at 325°F to cook them through, chill, then fry again at 350°F until golden and crisp. Yes, it’s worth the extra step!
  5. Fry Smart, Season Fast: Fry in small batches to avoid sogginess. Salt immediately after cooking and serve hot for the best flavor and texture.

 

National French Fry Day Giveaway:

To keep the celebration going, Idaho® potatoes is giving THREE lucky winners the Ultimate Fry Lover’s Prize Pack, featuring:

Here’s how to enter:

Visit bit.ly/4lIIZYn and fill out the entry form.

No purchase necessary. Ends July 16, 2025 at 11:59 PM PT. Must be a legal resident of the contiguous U.S./D.C., 18+. Void where prohibited. Winners will be contacted from a verified Idaho® Potatoes account ONLY, please do not engage with any spam accounts. Subject to full official rules.

About The Idaho Potato Commission

Established in 1937, the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) is a state agency responsible for promoting and protecting the famous “Grown in Idaho®” seal, a federally registered certification mark that assures consumers are purchasing genuine, top-quality Idaho potatoes. Idaho’s growing season of warm days and cool nights, ample mountain-fed irrigation and rich volcanic soil, give Idaho potatoes their unique texture, taste and dependable performance. These ideal growing conditions are what differentiates them from potatoes grown in other states. For more information, visit idahopotato.com.

Media Contact
Dana Valikai
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