Patatje oorlog, or “war fries” in English, is a popular Dutch dish that consists of French fries topped with a combination of mayonnaise, onions, and peanut sauce. The name “war fries” is said to derive from the chaotic combination of sauces resembling the mess of a warzone. The dish has been a staple in the Netherlands since the 1940s and has even become popular in neighbouring countries.
In the Netherlands, patatje oorlog can be found at various fast-food restaurants and snack bars, often served in a paper cone or a cardboard tray. It is a popular choice for a quick and filling snack, especially among students and late-night revellers. The combination of creamy mayo, tangy ketchup, and nutty peanut sauce creates a unique flavour profile that is both comforting and satisfying. Some people even claim that patatje oorlog is a cure for a hangover.
Dutch no war in Zürich
While patatje oorlog is a Dutch classic, it has also found fans outside of the Netherlands. One such example is the fries shop Fries Brothers in Zürich, Switzerland, which offers a version of patatje oorlog called Dutch no war. Fries Brothers was founded in 2018 by two brothers who grew up in the Netherlands and wanted to bring a taste of their home country to Switzerland. They use high-quality ingredients and offer a variety of sauces, including their own version of peanut sauce. Their Dutch no war fries have become a popular menu item, attracting both Dutch expats and curious locals.
Fries Brothers’ take on patatje oorlog shows how a beloved dish can travel across borders and find new fans in unexpected places. While the original recipe remains a favourite in the Netherlands, variations like Dutch no war demonstrate how culinary traditions can evolve and adapt to new environments. Whether enjoyed at a snack bar in Amsterdam or a fries shop in Zürich, patatje oorlog is a delicious and comforting treat that will always have a place in Dutch cuisine.