Italian Recipes

Crispy Belgian-Style Fries with Lard

Published
Jan 27, 2025
Reading time
2 min
Collection
Italian Recipes
Start cooking Add a note

Private editorial report

What needs our attention?

Only needed if you would like the site operator to ask a follow-up question.

Community taste test

How much did you love this recipe?

—/ 5 Be the first to rate

Tap a heart to leave your rating.

Category: Appetizers
Servings: 4

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Potatoes 1 kg
Lard (or Animal Fat) 5 kg
Fine Salt To taste

Instructions

  1. Begin by thoroughly washing the potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt or residue. Once cleaned, dry them completely with a kitchen towel.

  2. Peel the potatoes and slice them into long, even strips. Each strip should be about 8 mm thick and approximately 8 cm long.

  3. In a deep frying pan or heavy pot, heat the lard over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it melts evenly.

  4. Insert a food thermometer into the pot to monitor the temperature of the fat. It’s important that the temperature of the lard does not exceed 160°C (320°F).

  5. While the lard is heating up, ensure the potato strips are well dried before frying. Any excess moisture will cause the oil to splatter.

  6. Once the lard is at the correct temperature, carefully add the potato strips in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry the potatoes for several minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

  7. As the potatoes begin to float to the surface, it’s a sign they are done. Remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain them on a tray lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

  8. Season the fries with fine salt to taste and serve hot as a delicious appetizer or side dish.


These Belgian-style fries are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, creating the perfect balance of textures. They’re ideal for pairing with a variety of dips or enjoyed on their own with a pinch of salt.