New french fry trend heating up summer snacking

A snack inspired by a popular take-out trend in Ireland is being touted as a quick, tasty way to enjoy potatoes this summer, in time to celebrate National Fry Day on July 11.

Fry Bags, debuted by Potatoes USA chefs at the International Corporate Chefs Association Summit in Chicago in late June, provide a twist on traditional french fry consumption. Bought in stores, snagged for take-out or cooked at home in an air fryer, fries are tossed in a paper bag and shaken with a spice blend. Make sure the fries are crispy and hot before adding seasoning.

Recipes available on Potatoes USA’s website include the Firecracker Fry Bag, flavored with smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, parmesan and crushed spicy potato chips. Or try a Butter Chicken Fry Bag or a Nashville Hot Chicken Fry Bag.

Spice bags are a popular fast-food dish inspired by Chinese cuisine commonly sold at Chinese takeaways in Ireland. A spice bag typically consists of deep-fried salt and chili chips, salt and chili chicken, peppers, onions and a variety of spices. The bags are sometimes accompanied with a side of curry sauce.