i couldn't see this in the thread so i'll add it.
for frys, you have two choices. one, you can cut the fries small enough so the cook through as they are crispy. two, you cut them like you want them, then you fry them at a low temp to cook through*, then let them drain/cool, then when you're ready to eat refry them at a high temp to crisp/brown them.
*takes some practice, bigger fries longer, smaller fries less time.
or you could just buy prefried, frozen fries.
faster, and cheaper. unless you don't eat many and they get all iced up in the freezer. they do throw a lot of crap into your oil though.
oh, and try some mozzarella sticks.
as for oil, i use peanut. can't stand the smell and after taste of
rapeseed oil.