Five Guys, the popular American fast-food chain, has been a staple in the burger and fries market for decades. While their hand-cut french fries are a major draw for customers, many have wondered about the secret to their irresistible taste and crispy texture. One of the most frequently asked questions about Five Guys’ fries is: what do they cook their fries in? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of cooking oils and explore the answer to this question.
A Brief History of Five Guys and Their Fries
Before we dive into the cooking oil mystery, let’s take a brief look at the history of Five Guys and their fries. The first Five Guys restaurant was opened in 1986 by Jerry and Janie Murrell in Arlington, Virginia. The Murrells had a simple concept: to serve high-quality burgers and fries in a clean and welcoming environment. The chain quickly gained popularity, and today, Five Guys has over 1,500 locations worldwide.
Five Guys’ fries have been a key component of their success. The chain is known for its hand-cut, boardwalk-style fries, which are cooked in-store throughout the day. But what makes these fries so special? The answer lies in the cooking oil.
The Importance of Cooking Oil in French Fry Preparation
Cooking oil plays a crucial role in the preparation of french fries. The type of oil used can affect the taste, texture, and overall quality of the fries. There are several factors to consider when choosing a cooking oil for fries, including:
- Smoke point: The smoke point is the temperature at which an oil begins to break down and smoke. A high smoke point is essential for frying, as it allows the oil to heat to high temperatures without burning or smoking.
- Flavor: Different oils have distinct flavors that can affect the taste of the fries. Some oils, such as peanut oil, have a strong nutty flavor, while others, like vegetable oil, have a neutral taste.
- Cost: Cooking oil can be a significant expense for restaurants, so cost is an important consideration.
Common Cooking Oils Used for French Fries
There are several common cooking oils used for french fries, including:
- Vegetable oil: A blend of various oils, such as soybean, corn, and sunflower oil, vegetable oil is a popular choice for frying due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point.
- Peanut oil: Peanut oil has a distinct nutty flavor and a high smoke point, making it a popular choice for frying.
- Canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it a good choice for frying.
What Does Five Guys Cook Their Fries In?
So, what does Five Guys cook their fries in? According to the company’s website, Five Guys uses a proprietary blend of peanut oil and vegetable oil to cook their fries. The exact recipe is a trade secret, but the company has revealed that the blend is 90% peanut oil and 10% vegetable oil.
The use of peanut oil gives Five Guys’ fries their distinctive flavor and aroma. Peanut oil has a high smoke point, which allows it to heat to high temperatures without burning or smoking. This results in a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior.
The Benefits of Using Peanut Oil for Fries
There are several benefits to using peanut oil for fries, including:
- Flavor: Peanut oil has a distinct nutty flavor that complements the natural taste of potatoes.
- Texture: Peanut oil produces a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior, making it ideal for fries.
- Health benefits: Peanut oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which are considered a healthier option than saturated fats.
Why Five Guys Doesn’t Use 100% Peanut Oil
While peanut oil is the primary cooking oil used by Five Guys, the company doesn’t use 100% peanut oil. The addition of vegetable oil helps to reduce the cost of the cooking oil blend and also provides a neutral flavor component. Vegetable oil also has a higher smoke point than peanut oil, which helps to extend the life of the cooking oil.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the secret to Five Guys’ irresistible fries lies in their proprietary blend of peanut oil and vegetable oil. The use of peanut oil gives their fries a distinctive flavor and aroma, while the addition of vegetable oil helps to reduce costs and extend the life of the cooking oil. Whether you’re a fan of Five Guys or just a lover of french fries, understanding the importance of cooking oil in fry preparation can help you appreciate the art of cooking the perfect fry.
| Cooking Oil | Smoke Point | Flavor | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peanut Oil | 450°F (232°C) | Nutty | High |
| Vegetable Oil | 400°F (204°C) | Neutral | Low |
| Canola Oil | 468°F (242°C) | Neutral | Medium |
Note: The smoke point values listed are approximate and can vary depending on the specific oil and cooking conditions.
What makes Five Guys’ fries so irresistible?
Five Guys’ fries are irresistible due to their unique cooking process and the type of oil used. The chain is known for its hand-cut potatoes, which are cooked in peanut oil to achieve a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. The peanut oil gives the fries a distinct flavor that sets them apart from other fast-food chains.
The cooking process also plays a crucial role in making Five Guys’ fries irresistible. The potatoes are cooked twice, first at a lower temperature to cook the potato through, and then at a higher temperature to crisp the exterior. This double-cooking process ensures that the fries are cooked to perfection, making them a favorite among customers.
What type of oil does Five Guys use for their fries?
Five Guys uses peanut oil for their fries, which is a key factor in their irresistible taste. Peanut oil has a high smoke point, which means it can be heated to high temperatures without breaking down or smoking. This allows the fries to be cooked at a high temperature, resulting in a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior.
The use of peanut oil also gives Five Guys’ fries a distinct flavor that is different from other fast-food chains. Peanut oil has a mild nutty flavor that complements the natural taste of the potatoes, making the fries a favorite among customers. Additionally, peanut oil is also a healthier option compared to other types of oil, as it is high in monounsaturated fats.
Why does Five Guys use peanut oil instead of other types of oil?
Five Guys uses peanut oil instead of other types of oil because of its unique properties. Peanut oil has a high smoke point, which makes it ideal for frying. It also has a mild nutty flavor that complements the natural taste of the potatoes. Additionally, peanut oil is also a healthier option compared to other types of oil, as it is high in monounsaturated fats.
The use of peanut oil also allows Five Guys to achieve a consistent taste and quality across all their locations. By using a single type of oil, the chain can ensure that their fries taste the same everywhere, which is a key factor in their success. Other types of oil may not provide the same consistency and flavor, which is why Five Guys sticks to peanut oil.
How does Five Guys ensure the quality of their peanut oil?
Five Guys ensures the quality of their peanut oil by using a proprietary blend that is specifically designed for frying. The chain works closely with its suppliers to ensure that the oil meets their high standards. The oil is also regularly tested for quality and purity to ensure that it meets the chain’s requirements.
In addition to using high-quality oil, Five Guys also has a rigorous maintenance program in place to ensure that the oil is always fresh and clean. The oil is regularly filtered and changed to prevent it from becoming stale or contaminated. This attention to detail ensures that the fries always taste fresh and delicious.
Can I replicate Five Guys’ fries at home using peanut oil?
While it is possible to replicate Five Guys’ fries at home using peanut oil, it may be challenging to achieve the exact same taste and quality. Five Guys has a proprietary cooking process and recipe that is difficult to replicate at home. However, using peanut oil is a good starting point, as it will give your fries a similar flavor profile.
To get closer to the real thing, you can try using a similar cooking process to Five Guys. This involves cooking the potatoes twice, first at a lower temperature to cook the potato through, and then at a higher temperature to crisp the exterior. You can also try using a thermometer to ensure that the oil is at the right temperature, which is crucial for achieving the perfect fry.
Are Five Guys’ fries gluten-free?
Yes, Five Guys’ fries are gluten-free. The chain uses a dedicated fryer for their fries, which means that they are not cooked in the same oil as their breaded items. This makes their fries a great option for customers with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
However, it’s worth noting that Five Guys’ fries are cooked in a facility that also handles gluten-containing ingredients. While the chain takes steps to prevent cross-contamination, there is still a risk of exposure to gluten. Customers with severe gluten intolerance or celiac disease should exercise caution when consuming Five Guys’ fries.
Can I customize my Five Guys fries with different toppings?
Yes, Five Guys allows customers to customize their fries with different toppings. The chain offers a variety of toppings, including cheese, bacon, and chili. Customers can also ask for their fries to be cooked to their liking, whether that’s extra crispy or extra salty.
In addition to the standard toppings, Five Guys also offers a variety of sauces that customers can use to customize their fries. These sauces include ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise, as well as more unique options like ranch dressing and sriracha sauce. Customers can get creative with their toppings and sauces to create their perfect fry.