* Use **malt vinegar** for a stronger, tangy flavor — perfect for British-style chips.
* Add herbs like **rosemary or thyme** to the oil for aromatic fries.
* Make it healthier by baking or air frying after the vinegar parboil step — still crispier than boiling alone!
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### 🏆 Why This Works So Well
* **Vinegar stabilizes the potato’s pectin**, helping it maintain structure and resist breaking during cooking.
* This creates a **barrier that traps moisture inside** and allows the outside to crisp without overcooking the middle.
* Professional kitchens often use this or similar blanching techniques for that exact reason — now you can too.
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### 🍽️ Final Thoughts
Who knew something as simple as a splash of vinegar could make such a dramatic difference? This tip doesn’t add a vinegar flavor — just structure and crunch. It’s a small step that elevates your homemade fries from good to **gourmet**.
So next time you’re craving the perfect side dish, remember: **crispy fries start with vinegar.**
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Want to pair your fries with homemade sauces or turn them into loaded fry platters? Just ask — I’ve got plenty of ideas to make your fries the star of the table!
