www.whyville.net Aug 29, 2007 Weekly Issue



katluvr11
Whyville Columnist

Cooking up a Storm: The Story of the French Fry

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Most people think that french fries come from France. Most people are wrong. French fries are actually a shortened name: frenched fried potatoes. Frenching is a way of cutting: basically you take your potato and cut it into little strips. Then, fry up these strips, and voila! You are left with McDonald's signature item, fries.

There are many kinds of fries. Some of you might recognize waffle fries, especially ones from Chick-fil-A.

Or maybe you prefer Steak fries, cut much thicker in comparison to a normal fry. Even their shape is different, being more like a wedge instead of a slice.

Or maybe common McDonalds fries are your cup of tea.

Any way you look at it they're all made from potatoes. However, french fries weren't always called by that name...

In England, fries are more commonly known as chips. They look and taste the same, but fries are chips, and chips are crisps. And what's commonly served with chips? Fish!

Fish and Chips is a classic British combination. Battered fish is fried to accompany the average fry. One of the more common places for fish and chips? In the UK, Harry Ramsden's is a popular place for your fried craving.

Speaking of things that go well with fries, ketchup is another classic! How about you? Tell me what you like to eat on your fries!

But now, it's time for a recipe. I got this from Food Network's website.

8 Idaho potatoes, peeled
1/2 gallon peanut oil, neutral flavor, for frying
Salt to taste

Cut the french fries with mandoline or french fry cutter 1/4-inch strips. Heat a saucepan or stock pot (at least 2 gallon capacity) with the oil about 250 degrees (use a thermometer to gauge). Add the french fries and cook, stirring to avoid clumping together, about 3 minutes, until soft but not mushy. Remove with a mesh strainer and drain onto paper towels. Turn heat to high and heat oil to 350 degrees. At the last minute before serving plunge the fries into the oil and cook until golden brown. Remove from oil, drain onto towels and season with salt to taste.

Eat up! katluvr11

 

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