•- 2½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend (store-bought or homemade)
•- 1½ teaspoons paprika
•- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
•- 1 teaspoon onion powder
•- ¾ teaspoon cayenne pepper
•- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
•- 1½ teaspoons fine sea salt
Instructions
1Scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold running water, leaving the skins on for authentic texture. Slice each potato into ¼-inch thick sticks, maintaining uniform thickness for even cooking.
2Submerge the cut potato sticks in a large bowl filled with ice-cold water. Allow them to soak for 45 minutes to 1 hour, releasing excess starch for optimal crispiness.
3Combine the Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt in a small mixing bowl. Whisk together thoroughly and set aside near your frying station.
4Drain the soaked potatoes completely and spread them across multiple layers of paper towels. Pat them aggressively dry, removing every bit of moisture to prevent dangerous oil splattering and ensure proper crisping.
5Pour vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, filling it 3-4 inches deep. Heat the oil to precisely 325°F using a thermometer for accuracy.
6Working in small batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully lower the dried potato sticks into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes until the potatoes are cooked through but still pale with no color. Remove with a spider strainer or slotted spoon, draining briefly on paper towels. Allow the fries to rest for 5-10 minutes while maintaining oil temperature.
7Increase the oil temperature to 375°F, monitoring closely with your thermometer. Return the blanched fries to the hot oil in batches, frying for 2-3 minutes until deeply golden brown and magnificently crispy, developing that signature crunch.
8Remove the fries immediately and transfer to a large mixing bowl while still glistening with oil. Quickly shower the hot fries with your prepared Cajun seasoning blend, tossing vigorously to coat every surface. The oil acts as adhesive, so timing is critical—season within 30 seconds of removing from oil.
9Serve immediately in a generous portion on parchment paper or in a brown paper bag for authentic Five Guys presentation, allowing excess oil to drain naturally.