Bite Into a Better Made Snack
You can't leave Detroit without snacking on some Better Made chips! These crispy, crunchy, salty delights are a Detroit staple. Try every flavor, from classic BBQ to the daring dill pickle, and find out why these chips have been a local fave since 1930!
Top 5 for Detroit
Who Should Try This Dish?
This challenge is perfect for snack enthusiasts and those who love savory treats. Adventurous eaters will appreciate trying out the unique flavors, like dill pickle, while those on a budget will find these chips an affordable indulgence.
Flavor Profile
The primary flavors of Better Made chips vary by type but typically include savory and salty elements, enhanced by various seasonings. The texture is exceptionally crunchy, providing a satisfying bite with every chip.
Things to Eat with It
Better Made chips pair excellently with cold beverages like soda or beer, making them a classic snack for picnics and gatherings. Additionally, they complement dips like ranch or salsa, enhancing the flavor experience for those looking to enjoy a tasty snack.
What's in It?
- Potatoes: The fundamental base for making the chips, providing a hearty texture and flavor.
- Vegetable Oil: Used for frying the chips, contributing to their crispiness and enhancing taste.
- Salt: Adds essential flavor, enhancing the savory quality of the chips.
- Flavoring Agents: Varieties like BBQ, dill pickle, and others derive their distinctive flavors from a mix of spices and seasonings.
- Cornstarch: Sometimes added to improve texture and help with crispness.
Each ingredient plays a role in creating the satisfying crunch and rich flavors that make Better Made chips a beloved snack.
How It's Made
Better Made chips start with thinly sliced potatoes, which are then rinsed and dried. The slices are fried in vegetable oil until crispy. After frying, they are seasoned with salt and various flavorings, depending on the specific type of chip being produced. They are then packaged for distribution, ensuring maximum freshness.
Interesting Info about the Challenge
This food challenge is particularly unique because it highlights Better Made chips, a signature snack of Detroit since 1930. Engaging in this challenge means immersing yourself in local culture, tasting flavors that not only satisfy but also tell a story of the city's culinary history. As you sample each flavor, you’re not just enjoying a chip; you’re experiencing a part of Detroit’s community spirit, making it an unforgettable part of your travel adventure.
Regional Variations
Dill Pickle Chips
This popular variation of Better Made chips features a bold dill pickle flavor, offering a tangy twist that has earned a dedicated following among Michigan snack lovers.
BBQ Chips
Considered a classic, the BBQ flavor is a local favorite, drawing on the rich smoky and sweet notes that are emblematic to the region's barbecue culture.
Local Traditions or Rituals Around the Dish
Today, Better Made chips are enjoyed across Michigan and beyond, often served at family gatherings, parties, and sporting events. The brand is a source of local pride, symbolizing Detroit's rich snack culture. Seasonal events and festivals frequently feature the chips, showcasing the joy they bring to social occasions.
History of the Dish
Better Made Snack Foods Company was founded in 1930 in Detroit, Michigan, initially producing potato chips. Over the decades, it became a local staple, with immense popularity in the Midwest. The company's commitment to quality and local ingredients helped it endure through economic changes and competition. Better Made chips evolved over time, introducing various flavors that reflect regional tastes, particularly the famous Detroit-style flavors like BBQ. The brand has also been a part of community sponsorships and events, further embedding it into local culture.
Interesting Facts About It
The Iconic Bag
Better Made chips are recognized by their distinctive red and white bags, a design that has remained consistent, emphasizing tradition and quality.
Local Legends
Many Detroiters have fond memories of Better Made chips as a childhood snack, intertwining the product with personal stories of family and friends.
Variety is the Spice
With over 20 flavors, Better Made offers something for everyone, including unique options like dill pickle and spicy nacho, appealing to diverse taste preferences.
Community Commitment
Better Made is heavily invested in the Detroit community, sponsoring local events and supporting charitable initiatives, demonstrating their dedication to local roots.