I know, you’re scared. You want French fries, but you hate the calories and subsequent chubbiness. You’re scared because you really want to eat them, but you just don’t know how to make your own healthy fries.

Luckily, I have been making homemade French fries since I was 12 and can teach you how to make a guilt-free version of your favorite fast food. This simple recipe may sound intimidating, but all it takes is three potatoes and some elbow grease to excite your taste buds.

First, peel the skin off the potatoes. It is OK if you miss some, it will add to the taste in the long-run. Cut the skinned potato in half length-wise, then cut each half into thin, even slices and set them aside.

Pour the oil into a frying pan. Depending on the size of your pan, you might have to add or subtract some oil. Just make sure the bottom of the pan is covered. Turn the heat on high and make sure it is sizzling before you add the potatoes.

Be careful, because the next part is a little dangerous. Quickly slide the potatoes from your cutting board into the pan. The oil will be very hot and it can burn you if it sizzles. I’ve burned myself countless times doing this, so be cautious.

After you step away and let the potatoes simmer, it’s almost time to eat. Take out your favorite plate. You will need to lay a paper towel on the plate to soak up any extra oil. Dab the potatoes dry and add as much salt as you please.

Voila! That wasn’t too difficult. Your homemade French fries are ready to be savored.

One more thing: the sauce. When I was younger, my mom always wondered what the “secret sauce” was on McDonald’s Big Macs. She found the best dipping sauce for our homemade French fries while fueling her creative cooking aspirations at home. This may sound gross, but she mixed mayonnaise and ketchup together, and I have dipped my homemade fries in the stuff ever since.