For such a simple preparation, fried fish is a delicious and wholesome dish. A mainstay of the Lenten season, a fish fry allows people to indulge in this classic food while also upholding their religious traditions. However, many restaurants host weekly fish fries to be enjoyed by all, regardless of their background. Here are a few surprising facts about fish fries to whet your appetite. 

What's the Relationship Between Lent & Fish Fries?

The tradition of hosting weekly fish fries was born out of a Roman Catholic tradition known as Lent, which spans from March to April. During this time, it's customary to refrain from eating meat on Fridays. Fish and shellfish do not fall into the category of meat since they do not come from warm-blooded animals. As a result, Roman Catholics abstaining during Lent can enjoy fish on Fridays while fasting.

How Did They Become Popular?

Fish fries tend to be most popular in places that were settled by European immigrants. This includes areas throughout the Midwest, such as Wisconsin and Minnesota, as well as parts of New York and Pennsylvania. Along with their religious beliefs dictating what they could eat during Lent, many immigrants also prepared fish dishes because they were less expensive sources of protein compared to other meats.

Some also say that Prohibition played a role in increasing the popularity of fish fries. During the period, bars and restaurants that were losing revenue from lost alcohol sales resorted to selling food to make up for it. 

Fish was a popular selection because of its reasonable cost. There are also rumors that establishments cooked fish to mask the smell of alcohol, which was still sold through speakeasies. 

While fish fries are still popular within the Roman Catholic community, their appeal has expanded beyond church fundraisers and events. Many restaurants offer fish fries all year long, as opposed to only holding them during Lent. Fried fish is also accompanied by many delicious side dishes, such as potato salad, coleslaw, and French fries for a classic fish and chips dish. 

You can indulge in a fish fry any time of the year at Bungalow Inn in Lakeland, MN. In addition to their weekly all-you-can-eat fish fry, this restaurant also hosts karaoke, bingo, and live music. Their menu includes delicious appetizers, salads, pizzas, and sandwiches. Visit their website to learn more about their events, or call (651) 436-5005 for more information before you stop by.