Home Fries - History

History

A dish much like modern home fries may have been around for as long as humans have been consuming cooked potatoes. However the origin of the term home fries is somewhat of a mystery. Some speculate that it is an American term in reference to the fact that they are not deep fried or "french fried".

While it is possible to make home fries without par-cooking the potatoes, these are technically raw fries. The texture will be more chewy, and the longer cooking time increases the likelihood of burning the potato pieces. As the name suggests, home fries are also made as a simple dish which can be prepared even by people with modest cooking skills as a meal or a snack. A condiment such as ketchup, sour cream or maple syrup might be used for additional flavor and texture.

The frying is typically done in vegetable oil or butter. Other ingredients may be added. If chopped onions and bell peppers are added to diced potatoes it creates a dish known as Potatoes O'Brien. Sliced potatoes and thin sliced onions sautéed with parsley and seasonings are known as Lyonnaise potatoes. Bratkartoffeln in Germany are a form of pan fried, cut potatoes, often made with butter, German style bacon, onion, and parsley.

The consistency depends on the type of potato used. Although various types of white potatoes are the most popular base, sometimes waxy (usually red-skinned) or sweet potatoes are used.

In North America, home fries are popular as a breakfast side dish. In some locations, home fries are even used as a pizza topping.