The simple answer is: chips. While Americans call them "fries," in Britain, those long, thin, fried potato sticks are almost universally known as "chips." This seemingly small difference reflects a broader divergence in culinary terminology between the UK and the US, highlighting the fascinating evolution of language and food culture.
This isn't just a matter of regional slang; it's deeply ingrained in British culture. You'd be hard-pressed to find a fish and chip shop advertising "fries" – "chips" is the standard, understood term. This cultural difference extends beyond casual conversation; menus, recipes, and even official food labeling will almost always use the term "chips."
But why the difference? The etymology isn't perfectly clear, but it likely stems from the method of preparation. "Chips" originally referred to small, irregularly shaped pieces of fried potato, a style perhaps more common in the UK's early adoption of the dish. The longer, thinner "French fries" may have arrived later, but the name "chips" remained dominant.
What About "French Fries"? Do the British use that term?
Yes, "French fries" is understood in Britain, but it's less common than "chips." It's more likely to be used when directly comparing the food to its American counterpart or when describing a specific type of thicker cut chip. You might encounter it in more formal settings or upscale establishments, perhaps on a menu attempting to appeal to a broader international audience. However, even in these contexts, "chips" would likely also be used.
Are there other names for chips in the UK?
While "chips" is the overwhelmingly dominant term, you might occasionally encounter regional variations or slang. However, these are far less common and unlikely to cause any confusion.
What do British people call potato wedges?
Potato wedges, being thicker and often seasoned differently, are usually still called "wedges." The name doesn't change as dramatically as with the thinner, fried sticks.
What about crisps? How are they different?
It's crucial to distinguish between "chips" and "crisps." Crisps are the British equivalent of potato chips – thin, crispy slices of potato, usually sold in bags. This highlights a further key difference: "chips" are typically thicker, and served hot, whereas "crisps" are thin, crispy, and eaten cold.
Understanding the difference between "chips" and "fries" is a small but significant step in appreciating the nuances of British culinary culture and language. While the terms might seem interchangeable to an outsider, they represent deeply ingrained linguistic and cultural distinctions.
