Peel potatoes (optional)
Add 3 quarts water to pot and set heat to high
Add 1 tablespoon salt and 1 teaspoon baking soda to water
Chop parsley and set aside
Cut potatoes into 1 inch pieces
Bring water to boil
Boil potatoes about 10 minutes (until fork soft - they should not fall apart but a fork should pass easily through them)
Remove potatoes and set to on drying rack or paper towels to cool and dry
Drain all water, clean pot, and dry completely
Add oil to pot and bring up to 350°F (check temperature using your instant read thermometer every couple minutes - on our gas stove, a little above medium is 350°F)
Fry potatoes 10 minutes in small batches (small batches means no overlap or stacking in the pot)
Remove and set on side to cool and dry after each batch
Turn heat up to medium high and let oil come up to 400°F
Fry potatoes 5 minutes in small batches
Set aside, salt, and let cool before serving