Potatoes are a universal favourite, enjoyed in every form, from traditional side dishes for family meals to the most adventurous appetiser snacks. But faced with ever-expanding shelves, both in-store and online, it's easy to feel lost. Between marketing promises and endless ingredient lists, how do you make the right choice?
A few common pitfalls can lead to disappointment. One of the most frequent is blindly trusting claims like "oven-baked," assuming it's a healthier option, when the salt or fat content can still be very high. Another pitfall is the interminable ingredient list, which often masks a low proportion of potato in favour of additives and texturising agents. Lastly, the product's format is too often overlooked, which can lead to waste or quantities that don't suit your needs.
This guide is here to help you see more clearly and choose products that truly deliver on their promises.
To avoid unpleasant surprises, a few simple habits when reading the packaging or product description can make all the difference. Here are the points to watch closely.
The first thing you should do is check the proportion of potato in the product's composition. A high percentage (usually above 80-90%) is often a sign of quality and simplicity. It means the star ingredient isn't drowned in an avalanche of flours, starches, and other fillers. For products like potato patties or pan-fried frozen potatoes, a high number guarantees an authentic flavour.
A product's texture and nutritional profile depend heavily on its preparation.
A short, readable ingredient list is often a sign of quality. Be wary of products containing a long series of flavour enhancers (like monosodium glutamate E621), colourings, or complex preservatives. For spicy crisps or appetiser snacks with original flavours, the presence of natural spices and flavourings is always preferable to synthetic ones. Finally, always remember to check the list of allergens (gluten, soy, milk, etc.).
To put this advice into practice, here is a selection of products that meet different needs and cravings.
Why we recommend it: The perfect side for families looking for a quick and crowd-pleasing solution. It's the ultimate comfort food classic, pairing equally well with meat or fish. Just pop them in the oven, and they're ready!
No endless ingredient list here. The recipe stays true to tradition (potato purée and choux pastry), without any unnecessary additives.
The texture, of course! Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside. An indulgent treat without the hassle.
Why we recommend them: For those who like it hot and are looking for flavours that are off the beaten path. These spicy crisps with a Mala flavour (a blend of chilli and Sichuan pepper) are perfect for an appetiser that will surprise your guests or for an intense snacking session.
These crisps don't hide behind false promises. They fully embrace their status as a pleasure-focused snack, avoiding the "deceptive health claim" trap.
The Mala flavour, with its explosive duo of heat (chilli) and numbing notes (Sichuan pepper), offers a unique taste experience. As a bonus, the wavy cut holds the seasoning perfectly.
Why we recommend it: For those who want the real taste of potato in an ultra-versatile format. These potato patties are just as good in a brunch with eggs as they are eaten on their own as a satisfying snack.
With 94% potatoes and a minimalist ingredient list, this product avoids the trap of over-processed foods packed with additives. Here, the potato is the star of the show.
Its texture of simply grated potatoes. This gives it an unbeatable crispiness and a soft centre, far more authentic than products made from reconstituted mash.
Discover our full selection of products that tick all the boxes in our guide.
To keep your crisps crunchy, the secret is to protect them from air and moisture. The ideal solution is to transfer them to an airtight container. Otherwise, a good bag clip on the tightly folded bag, stored in a dry cupboard, will do the job perfectly.
These three classics are all potato-based, but their recipes are nothing alike:
Absolutely! Most frozen sides (fries, pommes noisette, patties, etc.) give excellent results in an air fryer. It's even the ideal method for achieving an ultra-crispy result with very little or no added fat. Still, take a look at the instructions on the packaging: more and more brands are providing specific tips for this increasingly popular cooking method. Generally, cooking at 180 to 200°C for 10 to 15 minutes, remembering to shake the basket halfway through, is a good starting point for a perfect result.