If you’re looking for a delicious and classic snack, look no further than Penn Station fries. These fries are a staple at Penn Station East Coast Subs, a fast-food chain that specializes in East Coast-style submarine sandwiches. Penn Station fries are crispy, golden-brown, and perfectly seasoned, making them the perfect complement to any meal. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Penn Station fries, including their history, preparation, and nutritional information.
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What are Penn Station Fries?
Penn Station fries are thin-cut, skin-on fries that are seasoned with a special blend of spices before being cooked to perfection. The fries are crispy and golden-brown on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside, making them the perfect combination of textures. While they are most commonly served as a side dish at Penn Station East Coast Subs, they can also be enjoyed on their own as a snack.
History of Penn Station Fries
Penn Station East Coast Subs was founded in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1985 by Jeff Osterfeld. The restaurant was named after the original Penn Station train station in New York City, which was known for its classic East Coast-style architecture. The menu at Penn Station East Coast Subs was inspired by the traditional East Coast-style submarine sandwich, which typically features thinly sliced meat, cheese, and vegetables on a long roll. Penn Station fries were introduced to the menu shortly after the restaurant’s opening, and they quickly became a customer favorite. Today, Penn Station East Coast Subs has over 300 locations in 15 states, and their menu still features their famous fries.
Preparation of Penn Station Fries
Penn Station fries are made from fresh potatoes that are cut into thin slices and then soaked in water to remove excess starch. The fries are then seasoned with a special blend of spices, which includes a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. The seasoned fries are then cooked in hot oil until they are crispy and golden-brown.
What Makes Penn Station Fries Unique?
So what sets Penn Station fries apart from other fries? For starters, they are made from fresh potatoes that are cut on-site, which gives them a unique flavor and texture. The fries are also seasoned with a special blend of spices, which gives them a delicious, savory flavor that is hard to replicate. Another unique aspect of Penn Station fries is their shape. Unlike traditional French fries, which are thick-cut and rectangular in shape, Penn Station fries are thin-cut and have a slightly curved shape. This shape allows for more surface area to be exposed to the hot oil, which results in a crispier texture.
Are Penn Station Fries Healthy?
While Penn Station fries are undeniably delicious, they are not the healthiest food option. One serving of Penn Station fries (approximately 4 oz) contains 440 calories, 23g of fat, and 54g of carbohydrates. They also contain 530mg of sodium, which is over 20% of the recommended daily intake. That being said, Penn Station fries can be enjoyed as an occasional treat as part of a balanced diet. If you’re looking to make your meal a bit healthier, consider pairing your fries with a side salad or grilled vegetables.
What Do People Think About Penn Station Fries?
People who have tried Penn Station fries generally have positive things to say about them. Many customers rave about the fries’ unique flavor and crispy texture, while others appreciate the fact that they are made from fresh potatoes. Some customers have even gone so far as to say that Penn Station fries are the best fries they’ve ever had. In addition to customer reviews, Penn Station fries have also received recognition from various food critics and publications. In 2019, Thrillist named Penn Station fries the best fast food fries in Ohio, citing their crispy texture and unique seasoning.
How Can You Make Penn Station Fries at Home?
If you’re not lucky enough to live near a Penn Station East Coast Subs location, you can still enjoy their famous fries at home. While the exact seasoning blend is a closely guarded secret, you can try making your own version by combining salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to taste. To make the fries, start by cutting fresh potatoes into thin slices and soaking them in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps to remove excess starch and results in a crispier texture. Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with paper towels. Heat a few inches of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the potatoes and cook until golden-brown and crispy, stirring occasionally. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fries from the oil and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Season with your desired amount of seasoning blend and serve immediately.
FAQs About Penn Station Fries
Q: Are Penn Station fries gluten-free? A: No, Penn Station fries are not gluten-free as they are cooked in a fryer that may also be used to cook gluten-containing items. Q: Can I order Penn Station fries online? A: Yes, you can order Penn Station fries online for pickup or delivery through the Penn Station East Coast Subs website or mobile app. Q: Are Penn Station fries vegetarian? A: Yes, Penn Station fries are vegetarian as they are made from potatoes and seasoning.
Nutrition Facts for Penn Station Fries
Serving size: 4 oz
Calories: 440
Fat: 23g
Saturated fat: 4.5g
Trans fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 530mg
Carbohydrates: 54g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 0g
Protein: 5g
In conclusion, Penn Station fries are a classic and delicious snack that are loved by many. While they may not be the healthiest food option, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Whether you’re enjoying them at a Penn Station East Coast Subs location or making your own at home, these fries are sure to satisfy your craving for something crispy, savory, and delicious.
