French Fries Or Potato Chips???

HELLO GENTLE READERS,

Ever wonder why a sandwich tastes so much better when you have either french fries or potato chips?

I think I know the answer–it’s the contrast.

The only question, then, is which one?

Potato chips take virtually no effort. You reach into a bag,  grab a few chips and put them on your plate. The crunchy, salty, almost addictive nature of a potato chip can seem like the perfect balance to a bland, boring sandwich.

Then there’s the french fry. Sure it takes a lot more effort to prepare, but you can dip them in ketchup, smother them in chili and cheese, put any kind of seasoned salt on them, the possibilities are almost as limitless as the people who choose fries.

So, why then, is there a need for a choice?

Well, I suppose you can do without potatoes all together, but why?

Sometimes the simplicity of potato chips make them hard to resist. Instant gratification in a bag. Sure they’re a little unfulfilling, but hey, they’re easy, right? Maybe there not quite as warm and versatile as a french fry, but there so doggone easy! They taste good! They’re generally sold in nice looking packages. If you don’t read the nutritional information, they seem to be the ideal, effort free snack.

But, alas, there’s the french fry.

They’re warm.  Compliment most any meal (not just sandwiches).  They can be seasoned with just about anything. The best part is how fulfilling they can be. Some people even eat fries as a meal in themselves. Top ‘em with a little substance and french fries stand alone.

My Grandma made me french fries when I was a little girl.  All that work – peeling potatoes, cutting them up, frying them in that special pan. Life sure was good when Grandma made french fries, in that special way, only Grandmothers can make ‘em.

So, is the preference for potato chips or french fries innate? Do we learn it? I’m not sure.

Although that “perfect” or at least “just right for me” french fry has been a bit elusive, I still find myself seeking it.

Maybe not just like Grandma’s, but at least close. Perhaps I’ll find it someday. Perhaps not. However, I reckon I’ll continue the search until I find it. Although, in all honesty I must admit that the occasional potato chip can be pretty good. Maybe even a whole bunch of them.

LaVerna and Tom Vickers