A lower-fat, lower-calorie version of french fries may be available soon at a fast food restaurant near you.
Feeling guilty for grabbing some fast food after (or instead of) your workout? Don’t worry. Burger King has your back … with a new french fry that has 40 percent less fat and 30 percent fewer calories than those of rival McDonald’s.
Burger King’s potato makeover is another attempt by the company to improve the nutritional content of its menu. In recent years, the company has added healthier options like cranberry apple salads and mango smoothies, and also slimmed down its burgers by removing a slice of cheese.
In the fast food industry, though, french fries are sacred. According to the New York Times, of the 100 million people who eat at Burger King each month, more than half order fries.
The last big change for the company’s french fries was about a decade ago when Burger King swapped out the beef tallow used to cook the fries for a healthier corn-soy blend.
The secret of the new fries—dubbed Satisfries—is in the batter that coats fries sold in fast food restaurants. Burger King worked with its fry supplier to develop a batter that was less porous … meaning it soaks up less fat.
If you aren’t ready yet for healthier fries, Burger King will still be selling its regular, full-fat version. But if you want to slim down your fast food meal, look for the new crinkled Satisfries. You’ll be out an extra 20 or 30 cents, but your body will thank you.
For an even healthier option, try oven-roasted french fries: Cut several large russet potatoes into large batons or fries. Coat lightly with olive oil, and set them in a single layer on a lightly oiled baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes at 450 F, turning them over every 10 minutes. When they are golden and tender, sprinkle with salt, dill, pepper, paprika, or other spices. Serve hot. (Adapted from Vegetarian Cooking for Everyone by Deborah Madison.)
