Fries are the deep fried potato strips. They are also called as chips or French fries. The thin strips of deep fried potato are called as fries or French fries while the thick strips of deep fried potato are called as chips.
Origin
The place of origin of fries is Belgium. A Belgian journalist has stated that potatoes were first fried prior to 1680 in the Spanish Netherlands (today called Belgium). According to some Belgians, the term "French" was introduced during World War I when American soldiers came in the Belgium and tasted the Belgian fries. They called them "French", because the official language of the Belgian Army was French at that time. At the border of Belgium, in the south Netherlands they are called as Vlaamse Frieten or "Flemish fries".
Ingredients and Preparation
Main ingredients of fries are potato and oil. They are deep fried in oil after cutting the potato into thin elongated strips. Salt can also be added to them and they are usually eaten as a snack with tomato sauce.
Health and Nutrition facts
Serving size – 1 small serving (85 g)
Approximate values of nutrients per serving (Calories - 271 cal, Fats – 14.5 g, Carbohydrates – 31.9 g, Protein – 3.2 g, Saturated fat – 3.4 g, Trans fat – 3.7 g, Cholesterol – 0 mg, Sodium – 165 mg, Dietary fiber – 3 g, Sugars – 0.6 g)
Nutritional Benefits of Fries
i) Fries contain zero cholesterol,
ii) Fries are very low in sugars,
iii) Fries contain Iron, calcium and vitamin C.
iv) Fries also contain Dietary fiber.
Who should avoid Fries?
i. Obese people – as they are high in fats and saturated fats.
ii. Weight watchers – as they are high in saturated fats.
iii. Diabetics – as they are high in fats.
iv. People with sedentary life style – as they are high in saturated fats.
Note: It has been suggested by the scientific research that the increased or more frequent intake of acryl amide (it is developed when the potatoes are baked or fried) is associated with increased risk of cancer of bladder, large bowel and kidney.