Cottage fries are a type of fried potato side dish that is thicker than traditional French fries. They are known by a few different names such as home fries, country fries, or simply thick fries. Cottage fries get their name because they are often served in rural cottages or cabins, though they have become popular on restaurant menus as well.
What do cottage fries look like?
Cottage fries are made by cutting washed, peeled russet or Yukon Gold potatoes into thick strips, cubes, or wedges. The cuts are generally around 1/2 inch thick. Thicker than shoestring French fries, but not quite as thick as home fries. The uneven shapes and sizes give cottage fries their rustic, chunky appearance.
How are cottage fries made?
After cutting the potatoes, cottage fries are parboiled briefly, just until barely fork tender. Some recipes skip this step, but parboiling helps remove excess starch for a crisper exterior texture. The parboiled fries are then drained and air dried for 15-30 minutes before frying. Drying is important to help form the crispy outer layer when frying. The fries are fried once in oil at a lower temperature of 325°F to cook through, then again at 375°F for the signature golden brown crust.
Cottage Fries vs. Other Fried Potatoes
| Type | Cut | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Cottage fries | Thick strips, cubes, or wedges ~1/2 inch | Crispy outside, fluffy inside |
| French fries | Thin matchsticks | Crunchy and crispy throughout |
| Home fries | Diced potato cubes | Brown and crispy exterior, soft interior |
As you can see, the main differences between cottage fries and other types are the cut and subsequent texture.
Cottage Fry Cooking Methods
The most common cooking method for cottage fries is deep frying. However, they can also be baked for a lower fat version:
Deep Frying
Best method for achieving the signature crispy exterior while keeping the interior fluffy. Use a heavy bottomed pot and fry at 325°F and then again at 375°F. Canola, vegetable, peanut, or rice bran oil work well.
Oven Baked
A healthier baking method is to toss the blanched fries with a small amount of oil, spread on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 25-35 minutes, flipping halfway through. The exterior gets crispy but interior is less fluffy.
Air Fryer
Air fryers are great for making crispy cottage fries without all the oil. Toss the potatoes with just 1-2 tsp oil, then air fry at 400°F for 18-22 minutes, shaking halfway.
Serving Suggestions
Cottage fries pair well with all kinds of meals and flavors. Here are some popular ways to serve them:
- As a side with grilled meats like burgers, steaks, chops
- Alongside roasted or grilled chicken
- With seafood like fish tacos or fish and chips
- On a breakfast plate with eggs and bacon
- Topped with chili and cheese as an appetizer
- In soups or stews
- Tossed into a salad
Seasonings
Cottage fries take well to being seasoned. Some tasty seasoning ideas include:
- Salt and pepper
- Onion powder and paprika
- Cajun seasoning
- Garlic powder and parsley
- Ranch seasoning
Sauces and Toppings
Drizzle sauces over the top or use as a dip for extra flavor. Some favorites are:
- Ketchup, ranch, BBQ sauce
- Cheese sauce, chili
- Sour cream, guacamole
- Gravy
Key Tips for the Best Cottage Fries
- Choose starchy russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. The starch results in fluffier interior texture.
- Soak cut potatoes in ice water for 30 minutes to help remove excess starch.
- Parboil briefly before frying for crisper texture.
- Let parboiled fries dry out before frying to improve crunch.
- Double fry at lower then higher temperature for crisp exterior and fluffy interior.
- Toss fries in cornstarch before frying for extra crispy results.
- Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding for even cooking.
- Season while hot out of the oil so flavors stick.
Conclusion
With their crispy fried exterior and soft, fluffy middle, cottage fries make a delicious and comforting side dish. Their hearty, rural nature makes them a perfect accompaniment to all sorts of meals from seafood to burgers and anything in between. With a few simple tricks and some seasoning, it’s easy to make outstanding cottage fries at home. They’re sure to become a new favorite!