CAROL ENJOYS FRITES IN BRUSSELS, BELGIUM
The Frites of Brussels: A Belgian Tradition You Can’t Miss
In Brussels, frites are more than just a snack—they’re a culinary institution. Thick-cut, double-fried, and served with a variety of sauces, these golden fries are a staple of Belgian street food. But be warned: in Belgium, they’re not called “French fries.” The Belgians are passionate about their frites, and rightly so—they believe they invented them!
What Makes Belgian Frites Special?
The magic of frites lies in the cooking technique. They’re fried twice—once at a lower temperature to cook through, and then again at a higher temperature to create a crispy exterior. The result is a perfect balance of fluffy interior and crunchy outer layer.
Unlike fast-food fries, Belgian frites are often made with fresh, locally sourced potatoes and fried in beef tallow for extra flavor. They’re usually served in a paper cone or box, making them easy to enjoy on the go.
Where to Find the Best Frites
There’s no shortage of friteries in Brussels, each with its own take on this beloved snack. The best places to try frites are those that are popular with locals, where the fries are thick-cut and cooked to crispy perfection. Popular sauces to try include mayonnaise, stoofvlees (a rich beef stew sauce), and andouillette (a mustard-based sauce).
For an authentic experience, look for friteries that focus on quality ingredients and freshly made fries, often with a dedicated following of local patrons.
A Belgian Classic You Can’t Miss
Next time you’re in Brussels, don’t miss the chance to try the city’s famous frites. Whether you’re enjoying them with a side of stoofvlees or dipping them into mayonnaise, these crispy fries are a delicious part of Belgian culture. So, grab a cone, enjoy the crunch, and savor a taste of Brussels’ rich culinary history.
See More from Our Journey:
This experience was part of our recent Tauck river cruise through Belgium and Holland.
To see all of our daily highlights, reflections, and photos, visit our full cruise landing page here.
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This article was written with the aid of Perplexity AI, or ChatGPT. Roaming Boomers Travel Services is an independent affiliate of Cadence and a Virtuoso® member. CST#201120-40
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