Yesterday, a first machine was installed in Brussels, at 686 chaussée de Gand, at the entrance to a supermarket. For the company that distributes these machines, this is a Belgian first, cooking with beef fat being… a world exclusive. “This device has been tested in India and Romania. We spent a year in development to adapt it to cooking with beef white”explains Tuline Bey, owner of BreakTime solutions which distributes the French fries corner.
But basically, how does it work? The customer introduces the change, 2 € 50, into the dispenser. He then chooses his sauce (three choices for the moment: ketchup, mayonnaise or samurai). The fries fall from a freezer and are weighed: 135 g. The portion is then transferred to the oil bath, whether vegetable or animal. A minute and a half later, the fries appear in a dish, ready to be eaten. Alongside, the condiments are served in a small box: sauce, salt and fork.
“The fryer is permanently on but can optionally be switched off when not in use, at night for example”explains Tuline Bey who ensures that all the provisions have been made for the security of the system. “We ran the machine for 10 days non-stop to see if it held up.”
In addition, the frying robot is equipped with a remote management system which informs the operator by SMS on the state of the stock (with a capacity of 25 kg, or 185 portions) and the state of wear. frying bath (to be replaced every 65 hours of heating). Three different filters have also been installed so that the machine does not give off the slightest odor.
All this great technology obviously comes at a price: €299 per month (which includes trays and sauces). After five years, the lessee becomes the owner of the machine. “Secondly, we plan to offer machines with two frying baths which would allow you to cook nugget-style croquettes”further comments Tuline Bey.
Supermarket customers who have had the opportunity to taste are rather positive. “It’s not bad at all. It’s a bit like home”comments Jean-Lou. “The principle is good. I find them good but I would rather see this kind of machine in a place where you can sit”adds Maïté. “I don’t have a fryer at home. I might be interested if there is a way to take away”concludes Valerie.
