The name “potato scallop” refers to a battered and fried slice of potato that is commonly found in fish and chip shops in Australia. Despite its name, the potato scallop is not actually related to sea scallops at all. So why is this fried potato snack called a “scallop”? There are a few main theories behind the origin of this unusual name.
Theory 1: Shape
One idea is that potato scallops were named for their shape, which resembles the shell of a scallop. Scallops are a type of shellfish with a fan-shaped, fluted shell. A round slice of potato dipped in batter forms a similarly round, ruffled shape after frying. The golden brown, bumpy exterior of a potato scallop may have been thought to resemble an actual scallop shell.
Theory 2: Cooking Method
Another explanation points to the cooking method used. Scallops are typically fried in butter or oil to cook quickly at high heat. The “scallop” in potato scallop could be a reference to the frying technique, since potato slices are dipped in batter and fried in hot oil to quickly cook and brown the exterior.
Theory 3: Seaside Ties
There may also be a connection to the seaside towns where potato scallops are a popular menu item. In Australia, potato scallops became a staple in fish and chip shops, which often used names related to the ocean. Since scallops are a type of seafood, the name potato “scallop” could be related to the beachside fish and chip shop tradition.
Theory 4: Marketing
Some food historians think “scallop” was used as a marketing tactic to make the potato slices seem fancier or more appetizing by linking them to scallops. This theory suggests “scallop” was added to convey these potato fritters were a special treat, in the same vein as seafood scallops.
When Did They Get This Name?
Potato scallops have been referred to by this name since at least the early 1900s in Australia. Earlier names included “sliced potato fritters” or just “potato fritters.” The term “potato scallops” became more widespread postwar in the 1950s as fish and chip shops grew in popularity. However, the exact origin of who first used the term is unknown.
Confusion with Names
The name “potato scallop” is primarily used in Australia. In other English-speaking countries, different names are used for the same food item:
- In New Zealand, they are called “potato fritters”
- In the UK and Ireland, they are referred to as “potato cakes”
- In North America, “potato pancakes” is the more common term
This has led to some confusion between Australians and other English speakers when ordering fried potato slices!
Alternative Names in Australia
Even within Australia, this item goes by different regional names:
- “Scallop” in Victoria
- “Potato cake” in New South Wales
- “Potato fritter” in Western Australia
So while “potato scallop” is recognized across Australia, local names vary around the country.
Conclusion
In summary, the exact origin of calling a fried potato slice a “potato scallop” is unknown, but theories point to the visual resemblance to scallop shells, the frying method similar to cooking actual scallops, seaside fish and chip shop traditions where they were commonly served, and marketing tactics to convey a sense of fanciness. The name arose in the early 20th century in Australia and has endured as the most common term, although similar foods are referred to differently in other English-speaking nations. Within Australia local names also vary, demonstrating how food naming and language can be specific to regional culture and history.