Stick French Fries

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and Chop: Start by peeling the potatoes. Once peeled, chop them into large chunks to make them easier to boil.
2. Boil the Potatoes: Place the chopped potatoes in a suitable saucepan. Add enough water to cover the potatoes and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Potato Mixture

1. Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and return them to the saucepan. Use a potato masher to crush the potatoes until they reach a smooth, puree-like consistency.
2. Add Ingredients: To the mashed potatoes, add finely chopped parsley, red pepper flakes or paprika, cornstarch, salt, and grated cheddar cheese.
3. Knead the Mixture: Use your hands to knead the ingredients together until they form a smooth dough.

Step 3: Shape the Fries

1. Divide the Dough: Divide the potato dough into two equal portions.
2. Roll Out the Dough: Using a rolling pin, roll each portion out on a lightly floured surface until it is about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Cut into Strips: Using a knife or a kitchen cutter, cut the rolled-out dough into long, thin strips, about the size of traditional French fries.

Step 4: Fry the Fries

1. Heat the Oil: Pour oil into a deep frying pan or pot, ensuring there is enough to submerge the fries. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry in Batches: Carefully add the strips of dough into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary.
3. Fry Until Golden: Fry the potato sticks, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. This should take about 3-5 minutes per batch.
4. Drain the Fries: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fries from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.