Pommes frites

There aren't many dishes in the world that have achieved the level of popularity that pommes frites have. This simple dish, which originated in Belgium, is made of potatoes cut into lengthwise strips and deep-fried in hot oil. Although there is some debate about the exact origins of pommes frites between France and Belgium, the fact remains that no nation in the world celebrates and enjoys this dish more than the Belgians.

They eat it every day, as a side dish or as a snack, and pommes frites shops, known as frietkots or fritures, can be found all over the country. Belgian-style pommes frites are prepared fresh, cut into thicker strips, and fried on-the-spot.

They are traditionally served in paper cones with a generous helping of mayonnaise. Today, a slightly different and more common version of pommes frites is served in fast-food restaurants all over the world: the strips are thinner than the traditional kind, and ketchup is the typical accompanying condiment.

Regardless of the condiments used or how they are served, these tasty fries have long been established as a favorite snack around the world.