Step 1 - Preparing the Potatoes:

• Peel the potatoes and place them in water to prevent discoloration. Cut them into quarter-inch slices removing any rounded sides to make them straight on all edges. Save the extras for another dish if desired.
  
• Ensuring uniform size as much as possible cut them into matchstick-sized strips (julienne) about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) wide.
  
• Rinse the fries in cold water to remove excess starch then soak in ice water for at least an hour and a half. 
  
• Take the cut potatoes out of the ice water and place on a cookie sheet lined with a paper towel to soak up the water.  Store the potatoes in the refrigerator for an hour and a half to firm up.
  

Step 2 - First Cook (Blanching):

• Heat the vegetable oil to 275°F (135°C) in a large pot. Use a thermometer to ensure accurate temperature.
• Carefully place the refrigerated fries into the hot oil and blanch them for exactly 3 minutes. Ensure they don’t stick together.
  
• Remove the fries from the oil, drain on paper towels to remove excess oil, and let them cool for a bit.  Transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spread out in a single layer.
  
• Place the blanched fries in the freezer for 2-3 hours. (You can prepare this step days in advance if needed).

Step 3 - Final Frying:

• Heating the Oil: Heat the oil to 400°F (200°C).
• Carefully place the frozen fries into the hot oil and fry until golden brown. Stir them occasionally to ensure even cooking. The purpose here is to make them crispy and golden, as they are already cooked through.  
  
• Once fries reach the desired color, remove them from the oil, drain on paper towels, and season with salt or specialty salt while they are still hot.
  
• Serve the perfect French fries hot in a basket or plate with your choice of sauce, like ketchup or remoulade.

Enjoy your perfect homemade French fries!