The fried potato may be the world’s universal snack. We call them French fries, but these crispy, golden sticks transcend borders and cultures. They are delectable on their own, though different countries have put their own unique twists on this classic comfort food by pairing fries with a dizzying variety of mouthwatering toppings and condiments. In this article, we’ll take a tasty journey around the world to explore the most typical foods eaten with French fries and discover their roles in each nation’s culture.
United States
Chili Cheese Fries: French fries smothered in rich chili con carne and topped with melted cheese are an American indulgence often enjoyed at sports events and casual diners, reflecting the nation’s love for hearty and flavorful comfort food.
Where to eat it: The Varsity
Atlanta and Athens, Georgia, multiple locations
Canada
Poutine: Originating in Quebec, poutine is a Canadian classic featuring French fries drenched in savory gravy and topped with fresh cheese curds. It’s a symbol of Canada’s fusion of French and English culinary influences.
Where to eat it: La Banquise
Montreal, Quebec
United Kingdom
Fish and Chips: A quintessential British meal, fish and chips pairs perfectly with crispy fries. The battered fish and vinegar-drizzled fries are a cherished part of British seaside culture.
Where to eat it: The Golden Hind
London, England
Belgium
Moules-Frites: Belgium takes pride in its mussels and fries combination. The crispy fries serve as the ideal accompaniment to a steaming pot of mussels in a flavorful broth. It’s a dish that exemplifies Belgian gastronomy.
Where to eat it: Chez Léon
Greece:
Gyros with Tzatziki: In Greece, French fries are often wrapped in pita bread along with slices of seasoned meat (usually lamb or chicken) and topped with cool and refreshing tzatziki sauce. It’s a delicious representation of Mediterranean street food.
Where to eat it: Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani
Athens
Australia
Chicken Salt Fries: Australians enjoy their fries with a sprinkle of chicken salt, a savory seasoning mix. This unique flavor combination has become a staple of Aussie fast-food culture.
Where to eat it: Lord of the Fries
Various locations, Melbourne, Sydney, Darwin
Mexico
Carne Asada Fries: Originating in Southern California but heavily influenced by Mexican cuisine, carne asada fries feature French fries topped with grilled marinated steak, cheese, guacamole, and salsa, reflecting the fusion of Mexican and American flavors.
Where to eat it: Alberto’s Mexican Food
San Diego, California, multiple locations
Netherlands
Frikandel Speciaal: In the Netherlands, fries are often served with frikandel, a skinless minced meat sausage, and a special sauce made from mayonnaise and curry ketchup. This snack represents Dutch fast food culture.
Where to eat it: FEBO
Amsterdam, multiple locations
South Korea
Tteokbokki: In South Korea, fries get a spicy twist when paired with tteokbokki, a popular street food made of chewy rice cakes in a fiery red chili sauce. It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Where to eat it: Myeongdong Kyoja
Seoul
India
Masala Fries: Indian masala fries are seasoned with a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. They are often served with chutneys like mint or tamarind, offering a tantalizing taste of India’s vibrant and diverse culinary heritage.
Where to eat it: Shiv Sagar
Mumbai, various locations
French fries probably weren’t even invented in France, since Spain was the first European country to cultivate the potato. Regardless of their origin, they’re an indisputably global phenomenon. These starchy, crispy snacks evolved into a diverse array of delicious taste combinations, all firmly fixed in the hearts and culinary cultures of people around the world. Whether you prefer chili cheese fries in the USA or moules-frites in Belgium – or any of these other mouthwatering pairings, one thing is certain – fries’ ability to satisfy our taste buds know no borders.
