The History Of "French" Fries

By: Ananias Asona

French fries are enjoyed all around the world. Who invented them, however, is still a question. Although it might sound obvious that French fries are from France, multiple countries claim to have invented the little chip.

The Discovery of the French Fry

The French fry has a rich history, which is still debated. It is said that this delectable dish was discovered in Belgium by American soldiers, where the dominant language at that time was French. Belgians, who are annoyed when hearing the term French fry, claim that in as early as the late 1600s, Belgian villagers were already frying potatoes in the winter when lakes were frozen and access to fish was limited.

Spanish Potatoes and French Recipes

The potato was introduced in Europe by the Spanish in the 16th century. The first French fry recipe, however, was found in 1795 in the French cookbook: “La Cuisinière Républicaine”, meaning The Republican Cook. This was at about the same time that street vendors in Paris started selling the French fry.

French Fries Around the World:

French fries are a sensation all around the world and are prepared in different shapes and types. In France they areprepared alongside a main dish, usually steak or mussels; in Belgium they are usually served in a paper cone with mayonnaise on top. In Canada fries are found in the national dish: poutine which is fries served with brown gravy and cheese curds. And in the U.K they can be eaten in fish and chips, served with salt and vinegar on top.