For anyone who has tasted the distinctively savory fries at Smashburger, the question of what they are cooked in is a common one. Unlike many fast-food chains that use a simple vegetable or canola oil, Smashburger takes a more traditional approach by incorporating beef tallow into their fryers. This combination is crucial to the flavor and texture of their menu items. The use of tallow, or rendered beef fat, imparts a deeper, more robust flavor that cannot be achieved with vegetable oil alone. This technique is a nod to a time-honored cooking method that has been used for centuries to enhance the taste of fried foods.
The Oil Blend for Standard French Fries
Smashburger’s standard french fries are cooked in a unique blend of beef tallow and canola oil. This dual-oil system is deliberate. The beef tallow is the primary source of the deep, savory flavor, which is a key characteristic of a quality beef-fat fried potato. The canola oil, a neutral and high-heat oil, is used to balance the fat and ensure a consistent, crispy finish. This careful balance ensures that the fries are both flavorful and perfectly cooked. The use of beef tallow also differentiates Smashburger from many of its competitors who have shifted to strictly plant-based oils due to cost or health concerns, although Smashburger's official site does caution about cross-contact for those with allergen sensitivities.
The Unique Preparation of Smashfries
For those who prefer a more seasoned option, the Smashfries are a popular choice. While the base potato is fried in the same beef tallow and canola oil blend, what happens after the frying process is what makes them unique. Once the fries are crispy and golden, they are tossed with a special blended oil, which is infused with rosemary and garlic. This adds a fresh, aromatic flavor profile that complements the savory beef notes. The process is a simple but effective way to create a second, distinct french fry option. An ex-employee on Reddit described the coating as a rosemary herb base mixed with olive oil, though Smashburger officially refers to it as a blended oil.
Deep Dive into the Cooking Oils
The choice of cooking oil has a significant impact on both the flavor and texture of fried foods. When examining Smashburger's method, it's helpful to compare their oil choices to those of other common fast-food fries. The primary difference lies in the use of animal fat versus plant-based oils.
The Flavor Profile: Beef Tallow vs. Canola Oil
- Beef Tallow: Prized for its rich, meaty flavor, beef tallow has a high smoke point, making it ideal for deep frying. It produces a dense, savory crust on the fries that holds up well, and the flavor adds a nostalgic, old-fashioned touch. The taste is what many associate with classic diner fries.
- Canola Oil: This oil is known for its neutral flavor and high smoke point, making it a workhorse in commercial kitchens. Its primary purpose in Smashburger's blend is to provide a consistent medium for frying and to ensure the fries cook evenly without burning, while still allowing the tallow's flavor to shine through.
Comparison Table: Smashburger Fries vs. Typical Fast-Food Fries
| Feature | Smashburger (Standard Fries) | Typical Fast-Food Chains | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Frying Oil | Beef Tallow / Canola Blend | 100% Canola or Vegetable Oil | Tallow offers a richer, more savory flavor. |
| Distinctive Flavor | Savory, beefy flavor profile | Neutral, bland flavor | Flavor profile depends entirely on seasoning. |
| Post-Frying Treatment | Simple seasoning | Simple salt seasoning | Smashburger offers the distinct Smashfries option. |
| Allergen Information | Potential for cross-contact | Often refined oils, though cross-contact is possible | Always check with the restaurant directly for allergens. |
Conclusion: The Secret Behind the Taste
The secret to what does Smashburger cook their fries in is not just one oil, but a deliberate combination that maximizes flavor and texture. By using a beef tallow and canola oil blend for their standard fries, they create a savory, hearty product that stands out from typical fast-food offerings. Furthermore, their popular Smashfries provide an alternative option with a fragrant rosemary and garlic coating, appealing to those who desire a more complex flavor profile. This attention to detail in their frying process is a key part of the Smashburger experience, and understanding the ingredients behind the curtain can enhance the enjoyment of every bite. Customers with allergies or dietary restrictions should always be mindful of the potential for cross-contamination in shared fryers and equipment.
How to Recreate Smashfries at Home
For those inspired to try recreating the distinctive Smashfries at home, the process is straightforward. Begin by double-frying your potatoes, a classic technique for extra crispy fries. First, blanch them in oil at a lower temperature, then fry them a second time at a higher temperature to get them golden and crunchy. After frying, immediately toss the hot fries in a mixture of extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, finely chopped fresh rosemary, and a generous sprinkle of salt. The heat from the fries will release the aromatics and bind the flavors perfectly, giving you a very similar result to the restaurant favorite.
Sourcing Ingredients for the Perfect Fry
If you're serious about replicating Smashburger's unique flavor, sourcing the right ingredients is key. High-quality beef tallow can be purchased from specialty butchers or online suppliers. Alternatively, you can render your own from beef fat trimmings. When choosing potatoes, opt for starchy varieties like Russets, which are ideal for frying due to their low moisture content and ability to become fluffy on the inside while crisping on the outside. For the Smashfries seasoning, use fresh rosemary and good-quality olive oil to ensure the best possible flavor. The fresher the ingredients, the better the final product will taste.
