Mayonnaise on French Fries: Debunking the Myth

As has been said, the term never may be too broad. In the United States, the idea that Americans never put mayonnaise on French fries is a misconception. My personal experience and the diverse food habits within a large country like the US challenge this notion, offering a more nuanced perspective on this now-famous culinary debate.

My Mayonnaise and French Fries Story

My preference for mayonnaise on fries originated in my teenage years while working at a Wendy's in the late 1980s. The homemade mayonnaise served there was exceptional, offering the perfect tangy flavor that complemented the fries. Despite this fond memory, my tastes have evolved over time. Now, I no longer enjoy mayonnaise and rarely consume fries, making this topic all the more intriguing.

American Food Habits and Mayonnaise on Fries

For many Americans, the image of French fries often comes with a ketchup squeeze, and that's perfectly fine. However, if you're looking for a more unique flavor, you might want to consider mayonnaise. Growing up in America, I was introduced to mayonnaise and fries when I lived in France. My coworkers and I had a taste for this combination, which later spread to other European foods I explored during my time in Germany.

While the idea might seem strange to some, it's not uncommon in the diverse food scene of the United States. Fry sauce, a mixture of mayonnaise and ketchup, is a popular option among American fast food lovers. In fact, many stores and major condiment brands offer their own versions of this versatile condiment, making it even more accessible. My go-to is Tabasco sauce, but everyone has their own preference when it comes to dressing their fries.

Other Toppings and My Preferences

There are countless toppings that can revolutionize your fries, from mustard to vinegar to curry. Even though ketchup is a common choice, it’s not my favorite. I avoid ketchup, referring to it as a vile substance. My absolute favorite is a couple of dashes of Tabasco sauce, but if you're looking for something more traditional, try malt vinegar and salt. These variations offer a range of flavors and cater to different palates.

The Indoctrination to Mayonnaise on Fries

Belgians, I've heard, enjoy mayonnaise on fries, leading me to experiment with this combination. It was one of those odd things that colleagues and I would do, and it was well-received in our office, where the waiters appreciated our European weirdness instead of our American tendencies.

However, not everyone shares the same taste in toppings. Another American who came to mind was someone who never uses mayonnaise on their fries. Their argument was that mayonnaise would turn the fries into an oil bath, which isn’t an appealing thought. Instead, they prefer malt vinegar and salt, providing a much cleaner taste experience.

Despite these varied opinions, it's important to recognize that the concept of never is too broad in a diverse country like the US. In reality, many Americans enjoy mayonnaise on their fries, especially in the form of fry sauce, a mix of mayonnaise and ketchup.

Conclusion

The next time you visit a fast food restaurant or a casual diner, be open to trying mayonnaise on your fries. You might be pleasantly surprised by the unique and enjoyable flavor it can add to your favorite snack. Whether you prefer ketchup, mayonnaise, or something else, the diversity of toppings for fries is what makes each bite a personal culinary adventure.