FRENCH FRY PRESS RECIPES

Steps:

• Bring large pot of salted water to boil. Line large baking sheet with several layers of paper towels. Cut 1 potato lengthwise into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Stack 2 to 3 potato slices at a time and cut lengthwise into 1/4-inch-wide sticks. Cook potato sticks in boiling water just until beginning to soften, 3 to 4 minutes. Using slotted spoon or tongs, transfer potato sticks to paper-towel-lined baking sheet to drain. Repeat cutting, blanching, and draining remaining potatoes. Pat potato sticks dry with additional paper towels. DO AHEAD: Can be made 4 hours ahead. Let stand uncovered at room temperature.
• Pour enough canola oil into heavy large pot to reach depth of 4 inches. Attach deep-fry thermometer to side of pot; heat oil to 350°F. Working in batches, add potato sticks to oil and fry until golden brown, about 6 minutes. Transfer to clean paper towels to drain. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

Steps:

• Add butter and oil to the Instant Pot. Using the display panel select the SAUTÉ function.
• When butter is melted, add onion, brown sugar, thyme, garlic and bay leaf to the pot.
• Cook and stir for 10-15 minutes until onions have cooked down by half and have a pasta-like consistency.
• Add brandy to the pot and deglaze by using a wooden spoon to scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pot.
• Continue to cook and stir until alcohol has cooked off, then add red wine and warmed broth to the pot and stir.
• Turn the pot off by selecting CANCEL , then secure the lid, making sure the vent is closed.
• Using the display panel select the MANUAL or PRESSURE COOK function*. Use the +/- keys and program the Instant Pot for 8 minutes.
• When the time is up, quick-release the remaining pressure. Remove and discard thyme stems and bay leaf. Add salt and pepper to taste.
• Ladle the soup into crocks, place a slice of bread on each crock and a slice of cheese on each piece of bread. Sprinkle with paprika.
• Put crocks on a baking sheet lined with foil and set under the broiler until the top begins to bubble and brown, 5-7 minutes.