When I was growing up (in the 40's), it was a craze to go to the comer
candy store during lunch hour (the school, PS 42, was just down the block)
and get a small paper bag filled with greasy French fries(15 cents) and
spill dell style mustard on top of them. When we got back to school you
could still smell the mustard on your fingers, I get the urge every once
in a while to make these "comer store fries," but to do so successfully
you need to have saved oil that you used at least once before. The
remembered taste is definitely that of "used" oil. Memories aside,
everyone enjoys French fries and a very good way to make them (a much
healthier way) is to pare 4 large potatoes, slice and then cut into thin
strips. Fill a large bowl with ice cubes and water and place your potato
strips in it for about 15 minutes. Drain well on a towel and place a few
strips at a time In a large skillet that has been filled 3/4 of the way
with vegetable oil (I prefer Crisco oil). Make sure the oil is hot (drop a
few drops of water in the oil and if it sizzles it's hot). Fry till the
potatoes puff and turn golden brown. Drain on a paper bag and place in a
250' oven until you cook all your fries, Serve with a little salt
sprinkled on them.