If you want to keep it simple, you can define curly fries and french fries with a twist! Differing from one another in shape only, curly fries and french fries are made in the same way.
However, the curly variant is usually considered a more fun way of eating fried potatoes, making it a perfect comfort dish!
Today, we’d like to talk a little about curly fries and explore their taste, history, and specifics. We’ll also look at some restaurant recommendations from Slice’s vast network to help you find the tastiest curly fries around!
When the history of this dish is in question, there are two relevant theories we need to take a look at.
The first one takes us back to the late 18th century in Belgium. There, potatoes were a very popular food, given how cheap and easy to get they were. However, the only way you could get them was cubed and boiled, baked, or cut into thin strips and fried. This is where the curly fry comes in.
In order to diversify the dish and present it in a new light, people started experimenting. Soon enough, they reached the curly-cut method and the rest is history.
The second theory we found involves restaurant worker James Scott and takes us back to 1930s Michigan. Like many, James loved his fries, but he felt there was something missing. Simple strips can’t be the only way, right?
He started experimenting with the cut of russet potatoes and soon enough he figured out that spiralizing the potato was a great option. Once he tested everything out and realized the curly fries recipe works, he put it on the menu.
Slowly, but surely, the spiral fry gained traction and is now one of the most beloved ways of eating crispy, golden brown potatoes.
If you enjoy the taste of regular deep fried potatoes, you’ll definitely love the taste of curly fries! Fundamentally, they are the same thing. Able to be baked on a baking sheet, air fried, or deep fried, these potatoes can take a lot of additions.
When sauces are in question, you can pair curly fries with virtually any sauce out there. Ketchup, mustard mayo, garlic sauce - everything is fair game! If you’re more into spices, know that your curly fries can be sprinkled with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, basil, and any other powder you enjoy.
The answer to this question depends on how you like your fries prepared.
If you choose to go with a classic, deep-fried option you’re looking at around 300 calories per cup. However, if you would like a lighter version, air frying or baking on a baking sheet with parchment paper are great alternatives!
In addition, the sauces you choose to have with your curly fries will also make a difference, so stick to lighter versions for a more balanced meal!
Now that you know more about this amazing side dish, it’s time for you to order some!
If you’re looking for curly fries in Vegas, we recommend Napoli Pizzeria.
In Boston, some of the best curly fries can be found at Land of Pizza.
Finally, for anyone in Philly, we’d like to highlight Shef’s Pizza.
If you didn’ty find your city on our modest list, know that Slice has partners all over the US. All you need to do is search our website and you’ll find a tasty spot nearby in no time!