Chicken Fried Friday

Come on, really, which fries look better to you??

If you said the bottom ones from a fast food joint, not to be named, shame on you!

There is nothing better than home made fries with a juicy backyard grilled burger, fried chicken fingers even a grilled steak (some people do call these "steak fries"), and they are so super easy.

Home made french fries:

Enough russet potatoes for your family (I usually use 4 rather large potatoes for our family of 5)

Cast Iron Pan (an absolute must!)

Crisco shortening or oil

Salt

Paper towel lined pan

Cut potatoes into lengthwise wedges and then cut them into strips to your desired taste. I usually leave the skins on, but if you prefer them peeled, peel before cutting.

Fill pan about half way with oil. You do not want to over fill because the hot oil will pop and is very hazardous if boils over. This is the trick, heat the oil over med. high heat until a wooden spoon causes immediate bubbling when dipped to the bottom of the pan. Do not let the oil start to smoke. Place potato strips in hot oil very carefully, in a single layer. Do not crowd them or they will get greasy. Watch them constantly and turn after a few minutes. You want them lightly browned on both sides. remove potatoes to paper towels and sprinkle with salt. Repeat for the next batch. I usually have at least four or five batches. The potatoes do cook quickly, but allow about thirty minutes of attention to them in your preparation. Serve with ketchup or ranch.

Sometimes, usually when hubby is out of town, we make a batch of these, cover them in chili and cheddar cheese. Pop into the microwave to melt the cheese, and top with green onion, bacon, jalapenos, sour cream, etc. This is not only delicious, it is guaranteed to jump start your new diet and workout plan!!!!!!