Approximately how many minutes should a basket of fries pre-cook for?

The recommended pre-cook time for a basket of fries is approximately 2 1/2 minutes. This duration is crucial for achieving the ideal texture and taste in the fries. Pre-cooking fries allows them to be softened and partially cooked, setting the stage for the final fry, which will provide the crispy outer layer that customers expect.

During the pre-cook phase, the fries absorb some oil and start to cook through without becoming fully crisp. This step is essential because it helps in reducing the overall cooking time when they are finished to order, ensuring that they come out hot and fresh. The timing is based on both the type of fries used and the equipment standards set by Five Guys, reflecting a careful balance achieved through training and operational procedures.