Scampi fries are, without a doubt, one of the most underrated crisps in the UK. They might not always get the spotlight like other popular brands, but their unique flavour and versatility make them arguably the best crisps around. In a world dominated by the usual suspects – cheese & onion, salt & vinegar – scampi fries offer something different, something bold. They deserve more love!
Scampi fries stand out because of their zesty, seafood inspired flavor. They have just the right balance of tang, saltiness and a slight sweetness. For many, they evoke a sense of nostalgia. They’re a staple pub snack that pairs well with a pint, giving them a timeless appeal. Their rich history in British pub culture also adds to their charm.
But most importantly, they are versatile. Their unique taste complements a range of dishes, from fresh salads to indulgent comfort foods, making them more than just a crisp – they’re a secret ingredient.
Five ways to use Scampi Fries as an ingredient:
1) Put it on Pasta Dishes:
Pasta dishes often lack a crunchy texture. Adding crushed scampi fries as a topping introduces a satisfying contrast to the soft, al dente pasta. This creates a more dynamic eating experience, where each bite combines the tenderness of the pasta with the crispiness of the fries. Try it with a seafood linguine. the scampi fries will enhance the natural seafood flavours while also adding an umami depth. They carry a hint of zest that cuts through the richness of creamy sauces (like a garlic butter or white wine sauce) while still complementing lighter tomato based or olive oil dishes.
2) Add to your Salads:
Salads are all about balance: freshness, acidity, and texture. Scampi fries are an ideal topping, adding crunch and a punch of savoury flavour. In a classic Caesar salad, the croutons provide texture, but replacing or mixing in crushed scampi fries adds another layer of flavour complexity. The scampi’s saltiness complements the anchovy based Caesar dressing, while the crunch adds a delightful contrast to the tender romaine lettuce.
3) Mix into Macaroni Cheese:
Mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and rich, but it can sometimes feel a little monotonous in texture. Scampi fries introduce an irresistible crispy top layer that breaks through the gooey, melty cheese. The contrast between crunchy and creamy makes each bite more exciting.
4) Toss into Tacos:
Tacos are all about layering flavours and textures, and scampi fries fit right into this concept, especially with seafood tacos. Fish and prawn tacos typically feature soft, tender seafood inside a tortilla, which needs something crunchy to add textural balance. Crushed scampi fries provide that perfect crisp contrast to the soft taco filling.
5) Coat your Protein:
One of the most surprising uses of scampi fries is as a breadcrumb substitute for coating meats like chicken or fish. This gives the dish an unexpected twist with minimal effort. Instead of traditional breadcrumbs, crushed scampi fries create a flavourful, crispy coating for chicken or fish fillets. This works particularly well when baking or pan frying, ensuring that the exterior stays crunchy while the interior remains tender.
So there you have it! While scampi fries have a distinctive flavour, they don’t overpower dishes. Instead, they add a nuanced layer of taste that complements and elevates the main ingredients. Whether it’s a creamy mac and cheese or a fresh seafood taco, they contribute just the right amount of tang and saltiness to keep the dish balanced and exciting.
Give it a go, and let me know what you think!