Exploring the Differences Between Belgian Fries and McDonald’s Fries

Introduction

Belgian fries, also known as Belgian fries or frites, have a rich cultural heritage and are renowned for their superior quality and crispiness. In contrast, McDonald’s fries have become a fast-food staple, popular for their convenience and affordability. This article delves into the differences between these two forms of fries, providing insights that could help McDonald’s improve its offerings.

Crunchiness is Not the Only Difference

Belgian fries stand out not just by their crispiness but also by their overall taste and texture. The preparation method and ingredients play a significant role in their superior flavor. Unlike fast-food chains that often use frozen and pre-cooked fries, Belgian fries are typically freshly made right in front of the customer. The technique, which often involves twice-frying the potatoes, results in a better texture and taste.

Sound of Crispiness

One unique characteristic of Belgian fries is the sound they emit when you bite into them. This crispy, crackly noise is often likened to the delight of eating a thin slice of pizza, where you hear a satisfying crunch with every bite. This crispiness is a result of the perfect frying technique, which ensures that the outer layer is perfectly crisp while the inside remains tender and juicy.

French Fries vs. McDonald’s Fries

McDonald’s fries, on the other hand, are often criticized for lacking the same level of crunchiness. While they serve the fries with a wide variety of dipping sauces like ketchup, mayonnaise, or their own proprietary sauces, the addition of flavored aioli dipping sauces could make a significant improvement. The classic Big Mac sauce, while popular, may not be the best option for those seeking a more diverse range of flavors, especially when compared to the traditional Belgian fries served with aioli or mayonnaise.

Dipping Alternatives

The issue with dipping McDonald’s fries in milkshakes or ranch dressing is a common topic of debate. While some might find frozen fries dipped in milkshakes interesting, it is generally considered an unusual and unconventional pairing. Ranch dressing, as a highly versatile condiment, is often abused with excessive use or uncharacteristic applications, as seen in the movie "The Whale." Watching the film could provide a hilariously exaggerated portrayal of excess usage of ranch dressing, making the point clear about why it’s not a suitable dipping sauce for fries.

Evolution of French Fries in France and Belgium

Historically, there has been a difference in the preparation methods of fries in France and Belgium. France made the switch to frying in oil much earlier than Belgium. This means that about 35 to 40 years ago, French fries in France had already adopted the modern frying method, which is prevalent today. In contrast, Belgian fries were still frequently fried in lard until more recent times. However, as preparation techniques have evolved and become more standardized, the differences between French and Belgian fries have diminished in recent decades.

Conclusion

Belgian fries offer a superior experience, characterized by their crispiness, taste, and freshness. McDonald’s, on the other hand, has improved significantly with its variety of dipping sauces. For a truly delightful fry experience, both restaurants and consumers might consider offering more diverse dipping options and refining their preparation techniques to match the standards set by Belgian fries.