Pommes frites
(French Fries, Chips, Patat, Pomfrit, Vlaamse frites, Fries)
There are not many dishes in the world that have risen to the popularity of pommes frites. This simple dish is made out of potatoes that are cut into lengthwise strips and deep-fried in hot oil. Although there is a fierce rivalry between France and Belgium concerning the exact origin of pommes frites, the fact is that there is no nation in the world which celebrates and enjoys this dish more than the Belgians.
They eat it on a daily basis, as a side dish or as a snack, while pommes frites shops, called frietkots or fritures, can be found throughout the country. Belgian-style pommes frites are freshly prepared, cut into thicker strips and fried on the spot.
They are traditionally served in paper cones and accompanied by a generous portion of mayonnaise. Today, a slightly different and more common version of pommes frites is served in fast-food restaurants around the world: the strips are thinner than the traditional kind, and the typical choice for an accompanying condiment is ketchup.
Regardless of the variety of condiments, and the way it is served, these tasty fries have long ago established their position as a favorite snack around the globe.
