Welcome To Texas: Jack's French Frys
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DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - At the State Fair of Texas, you will find a mix of new fun things to do and some of the old tried and true booths. From Big Tex to the lagoon, the State Fair of Texas is filled with traditional gems.
You'll find another one just outside of the Cotton Bowl -- Jack's French Frys. "I've never missed a fair my whole life. I've never missed," said Jack Pyland.
Pyland's father started at the fair back in 1945. That was three years before Jack was born, so he literally grew up at the State Fair of Texas. "I got memories of when I was a kid," Pyland said, "we used to get intertubes and float down the midway when they would wash it down at night."
The fair is in his blood. But it's not an easy job.
"I go get potatoes at 4 o'clock ever morning at the market. Then suppliers are here. You open at 8 or 9-ish and we will run till midnight, when I finally get to bed. So, I get about two hours of sleep," Pyland said.
The fair changes a little every year, Pyland added, but his stand is built on tradition, down to the technique! They use the same potato peeler that they have used for decades. "My dad tells me it came off the battleship Texas, but I think that may be one of those nights at dinner, my dad is sitting around telling me stories. Sometimes you don't know," Pyland said. "It's a good story either way."
Then, they use the same slicer that they have used for decades, and that is still done by hand.
Pyland said that the secret to his success is hard work and fresh potatoes -- never frozen. Then, add toppings. "The best thing about fries is salt and vinegar," Pyland said. He serves them in a cone, just like he has for decades. "These are good. I hope so."
Pyland is gearing up for a crowd, since his booth is right outside of the Cotton Bowl. The Texas-Oklahoma football game is one of his busiest days.
So, when you head out to the fair, look for Jack's French Frys -- this year and every year -- because Pyland plans on being here every October from now on. "I hope so. I don't plan on leaving," Pyland said. "Lord willing and the creek don't rise, I'll still be here."