For how many minutes should cut potatoes be soaked in cold water before use?

Soaking cut potatoes in cold water for 15 minutes is essential for several reasons. First, this process helps to remove excess starch from the surface of the potatoes. Lowering the starch content can lead to a crispier fry, which is particularly important for a brand like Five Guys that emphasizes high-quality, flavorful fry products.

Additionally, soaking can help to prevent the cut potatoes from browning and can improve their overall texture during cooking. This brief soaking period is a balance, providing enough time for the potatoes to absorb water without losing their firmness or becoming overly waterlogged. In a busy restaurant environment like Five Guys, adhering to this soaking time ensures the fries maintain their signature texture and quality, contributing positively to the customer experience.

Other times listed may either be inadequate to achieve the desired effect or excessively long, potentially leading to a less-than-optimal end product. Thus, a 15-minute soaking time has been identified as the ideal duration for preparing cut potatoes for frying.