The smell of saltwater, the sound of seagulls, and the taste of crispy, golden fries – these are just a few things that come to mind when thinking of a classic boardwalk experience. Boardwalk fries, in particular, have become an iconic snack that’s synonymous with summertime, beach towns, and carefree fun. But what sets them apart from regular fries? Is it the way they’re cooked, the ingredients used, or something else entirely? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of boardwalk fries and explore what makes them truly unique.
A Brief History of Boardwalk Fries
To understand what makes boardwalk fries different, it’s essential to look at their history. The concept of boardwalks dates back to the late 19th century, when seaside resorts began building wooden walkways along their beaches to accommodate the growing number of tourists. These boardwalks quickly became hubs for entertainment, shopping, and dining, with food vendors and restaurants offering a variety of snacks and meals to hungry visitors.
Fries, in particular, were a staple at many boardwalks, thanks to their ease of preparation, affordability, and crowd-pleasing appeal. Over time, boardwalk fries evolved to become a distinct culinary entity, shaped by the unique cultural and environmental factors of the coastal towns where they were served.
The Secret to Boardwalk Fries: Ingredients and Preparation
So, what makes boardwalk fries so special? The answer lies in a combination of ingredients, preparation methods, and cooking techniques that have been perfected over the years. Here are some key factors that contribute to the distinctive taste and texture of boardwalk fries:
Potatoes: The Right Variety Makes All the Difference
Boardwalk fries are typically made from high-quality potatoes that are specifically chosen for their flavor, texture, and ability to hold up to the cooking process. Look for varieties like Russet or Shepody, which have a high starch content and a dry, dense texture that yields a crispy exterior and fluffy interior.
Cutting and Soaking: The Key to Crispiness
Boardwalk fries are usually cut into long, thin strips, which helps them cook evenly and prevents them from becoming too thick or soggy. To achieve the perfect crispiness, many boardwalk vendors soak their cut potatoes in cold water for several hours or overnight. This step removes excess starch, helping the fries cook up crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Double-Frying: The Secret to Golden Perfection
Double-frying is a technique that involves frying the potatoes twice, with a resting period in between. This process helps remove excess moisture, resulting in a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. The first fry, also known as “blanching,” typically takes place at a lower temperature (around 325°F) to cook the potatoes through without browning them. The second fry, which occurs at a higher temperature (around 375°F), gives the fries their signature golden color and crunch.
Seasoning: A Pinch of Salt and a Whole Lot of Flavor
Boardwalk fries are often seasoned with a generous sprinkle of salt, which enhances their natural flavor and adds a touch of crunch. Some vendors may also add other seasonings, such as paprika, garlic powder, or chili powder, to give their fries an extra boost of flavor.
The Role of Cooking Oil in Boardwalk Fries
Cooking oil plays a crucial role in the preparation of boardwalk fries. The type of oil used can greatly impact the flavor, texture, and overall quality of the fries. Here are some factors to consider:
Choosing the Right Oil
Boardwalk vendors often use a blend of oils, such as peanut oil, vegetable oil, or a combination of the two. Peanut oil, in particular, is prized for its mild flavor, high smoke point, and ability to produce a crispy exterior.
Oil Temperature: The Key to Perfect Fries
The temperature of the cooking oil is critical when it comes to making boardwalk fries. If the oil is too hot, the fries will burn on the outside before they’re fully cooked on the inside. If it’s too cold, they’ll absorb excess oil and become greasy. The ideal temperature for frying boardwalk fries is between 350°F and 375°F.
The Boardwalk Experience: Atmosphere and Tradition
While the ingredients and preparation methods used to make boardwalk fries are certainly important, the overall experience of enjoying them on a bustling boardwalk is just as crucial. Here are some factors that contribute to the unique atmosphere and tradition surrounding boardwalk fries:
The Sound of the Sea
There’s something special about enjoying a plate of hot, crispy fries while listening to the sound of the waves crashing against the shore. The ocean air, the cries of seagulls, and the smell of saltwater all combine to create a sensory experience that’s hard to replicate.
The Thrill of the Crowd
Boardwalks are often bustling with people, and the energy of the crowd can be infectious. Whether you’re strolling along the beach, playing games, or simply people-watching, the boardwalk experience is all about being part of a vibrant, dynamic community.
Tradition and Nostalgia
For many people, boardwalk fries evoke memories of childhood summers spent at the beach. The smell of fries, the taste of saltwater taffy, and the sound of the carousel all combine to create a sense of nostalgia and tradition that’s hard to resist.
Conclusion
Boardwalk fries are more than just a tasty snack – they’re an experience that combines the perfect blend of ingredients, preparation methods, and atmosphere. Whether you’re a longtime fan of boardwalk fries or just discovering them for the first time, there’s no denying the magic of this iconic snack. So next time you’re strolling along the beach, be sure to stop by a boardwalk vendor and indulge in a plate of crispy, golden fries. Your taste buds – and your sense of nostalgia – will thank you.
Boardwalk Fries: A Recipe to Try at Home
While nothing beats the experience of enjoying boardwalk fries on a bustling beachside promenade, you can still recreate the magic at home with this simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds Russet or Shepody potatoes
- 1/2 cup peanut oil or vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
- Cut the potatoes into long, thin strips and soak them in cold water for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Heat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 325°F.
- Blanch the potatoes in batches until they’re cooked through but not browned, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Remove the potatoes from the oil and let them cool completely on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Increase the oil temperature to 375°F and fry the potatoes in batches until they’re golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
- Remove the fries from the oil and sprinkle them with salt, paprika, and garlic powder (if using).
- Serve the fries hot and enjoy!
Note: For an extra-authentic experience, try serving your boardwalk fries in a paper cone or a cardboard container, just like they do on the boardwalk!
What is the origin of Boardwalk Fries?
Boardwalk Fries originated in the 1980s in Ocean City, Maryland, a popular beach town on the Eastern Seaboard. The story goes that a local entrepreneur, inspired by the classic French fry stands found along the Jersey Shore, decided to create his own version of this beloved snack. He perfected a recipe that would eventually become the signature Boardwalk Fries that people know and love today.
The original Boardwalk Fries location quickly gained popularity among locals and tourists alike, and soon the brand expanded to other locations along the East Coast. Today, Boardwalk Fries can be found in numerous locations, from beachside stands to shopping malls, and even in grocery stores across the country.
What makes Boardwalk Fries different from regular French fries?
One of the key factors that sets Boardwalk Fries apart from regular French fries is their unique cooking process. Boardwalk Fries are cooked in small batches throughout the day, ensuring that every serving is hot and fresh. The fries are also cooked in a special blend of oils that gives them a distinct flavor and crispy texture.
Another factor that contributes to the distinctiveness of Boardwalk Fries is their special seasoning blend. The exact recipe is a trade secret, but it’s a proprietary mix of herbs and spices that adds a depth of flavor to the fries that’s hard to find elsewhere. This combination of cooking process and seasoning blend is what makes Boardwalk Fries truly unique.
What types of potatoes are used to make Boardwalk Fries?
Boardwalk Fries uses a proprietary blend of potato varieties that are specifically selected for their high starch content and natural sweetness. The exact varieties used are a trade secret, but they’re generally a combination of Russet and Shepody potatoes. These varieties are chosen for their ability to yield a crispy outside and fluffy inside when cooked.
The potatoes used to make Boardwalk Fries are also carefully selected for their size and shape. The company uses a specific size and shape of potato that allows for the perfect balance of crunch and fluffiness in every fry. This attention to detail is what sets Boardwalk Fries apart from other French fry brands.
Are Boardwalk Fries gluten-free?
Yes, Boardwalk Fries are gluten-free. The company takes great care to ensure that all of their ingredients, including their seasoning blend, are gluten-free. This makes Boardwalk Fries a great option for people with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
It’s worth noting, however, that Boardwalk Fries are cooked in a shared fryer with other menu items that may contain gluten. While the company takes steps to minimize cross-contamination, there’s always a risk of exposure to gluten. If you have a severe gluten intolerance, it’s best to check with the specific location where you’re purchasing your Boardwalk Fries to confirm their gluten-free protocols.
Can I purchase Boardwalk Fries in grocery stores?
Yes, Boardwalk Fries are available for purchase in many grocery stores across the country. The company offers a range of products, including frozen fries, seasoning blends, and even pre-cooked fries that can be heated up at home.
When purchasing Boardwalk Fries in a grocery store, be sure to check the packaging for specific cooking instructions. The company provides detailed instructions on how to cook their fries to perfection, whether you’re baking them in the oven or cooking them in a skillet on the stovetop.
Does Boardwalk Fries offer any vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, Boardwalk Fries offers a range of vegetarian and vegan options. The company’s fries are cooked in a dedicated fryer that’s free from animal products, making them a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
In addition to their fries, Boardwalk Fries also offers a range of vegetarian and vegan dipping sauces, including a popular vegan mayo. The company is committed to providing options for customers with dietary restrictions, and they’re always looking for new ways to innovate and expand their menu.
Can I franchise a Boardwalk Fries location?
Yes, Boardwalk Fries offers franchising opportunities for entrepreneurs who are passionate about bringing the brand to their local community. The company provides comprehensive training and support to all of its franchisees, including assistance with location selection, marketing, and operations.
Franchising a Boardwalk Fries location requires a significant investment, but it can be a rewarding business opportunity for the right candidate. If you’re interested in learning more about franchising a Boardwalk Fries location, be sure to check out the company’s website for more information and to submit an application.