French fries, also known as “fries” in many parts of the world, are one of the most beloved fast food staples. Whether as a side to burgers, part of a meal, or a standalone snack, French fries have become a global phenomenon. But if you’ve ever wondered why they’re called “French” fries when they’re available in every corner of the world, the answer isn’t as straightforward as it may seem.
In this article, we will dive into the origins of French fries, the story behind their name, and how they’ve become a symbol of modern fast food culture.
Origins of French Fries: A Belgian or French Invention?
To understand why French fries are called “French,” we must first explore their origins. Surprisingly, despite the name, many food historians believe that French fries didn’t actually originate in France but rather in Belgium.
The Belgian Claim
The Belgian people lay strong claim to the invention of fries. According to Belgian tradition, the concept of frying thinly sliced potatoes dates back to the late 17th century. Fishermen in the Meuse Valley, an area that today spans parts of Belgium, would often fry small fish they caught in the river as a staple part of their diet. However, during the winter when the river froze and fishing was impossible, they resorted to cutting potatoes into thin, fish-like shapes and frying them as a substitute. This practice is believed to be the origin of what we now call French fries.
Belgians are so proud of their potato-frying tradition that they have a special word for it in their local language: “frites” (or “frieten” in some regions), and you’ll find thousands of friteries or fritkots—small shops that specialize in selling fries—all over Belgium.
The French Argument
The French also have a compelling case for the invention of fries, though their story is slightly different. French food historians argue that fried potatoes originated in Paris around the late 18th century during the time of the French Revolution. Street vendors near the famous Pont Neuf bridge in Paris were known to sell thinly sliced fried potatoes to pedestrians. These “pommes frites” or “fried potatoes” quickly became popular across the city and were enjoyed as a street food delicacy.
While the French version of events has strong historical backing, many historians agree that the technique of deep-frying foods—especially potatoes—was likely introduced to France through cultural exchanges between neighboring Belgium and France.
So, Why “French”?
The name “French fries” likely has more to do with the way the potatoes are cut than where they were first cooked. In culinary terms, “to french” means to cut food into long, thin strips, similar to the way French fries are prepared. This technique, known as frenching, was already commonly used in French cuisine, especially for vegetables. As a result, when the method was applied to potatoes, they naturally became known as “French” fries, even though the actual origin of the dish may be Belgian.
The American Connection
The name “French fries” became widely popular in the United States, but the introduction of fries to American culture can be attributed to several sources.
Thomas Jefferson’s Influence
One of the earliest known mentions of French fries in the United States can be traced back to Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, who served as the U.S. ambassador to France from 1784 to 1789. During his time in France, Jefferson developed a taste for French cuisine, and upon his return to the U.S., he is said to have brought back a recipe for “potatoes served in the French manner”, describing them as deep-fried in thin slices. Jefferson served these “French-fried” potatoes at state dinners at the White House, helping to popularize the dish among American society.
U.S. Soldiers and World War I
Another theory about how French fries became synonymous with “French” in the United States involves American soldiers during World War I. When U.S. troops were stationed in Belgium, they were introduced to fried potatoes, a popular local dish. However, because French was the dominant language in the region of Belgium where the soldiers were stationed, the soldiers simply referred to the fried potatoes as “French fries,” and the name stuck once they returned home. This helped popularize the term in America, where it gained widespread recognition in the 1920s and 1930s.
The Global Spread of French Fries
Although French fries are often associated with American fast food today, their global spread can be attributed to the rise of fast-food chains such as McDonald’s. Starting in the mid-20th century, American fast food brands helped popularize French fries internationally, turning them into a beloved side dish. As American culture and fast food expanded worldwide, so too did the influence of French fries.
Today, you can find French fries served in a variety of styles and with different toppings across many countries. Some examples include:
- Poutine in Canada: French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.
- Chili Cheese Fries in the U.S.: Fries smothered in chili and melted cheese.
- Patatje oorlog in the Netherlands: Fries served with mayonnaise, peanut sauce, and onions.
- Currywurst mit Pommes in Germany: Fries served alongside sausages and topped with curry ketchup.
French Fries by Any Other Name
Interestingly, not every country refers to these delicious fried potatoes as “French fries.” In the United Kingdom, they’re called chips, while in French-speaking countries like Belgium and France, they’re known simply as frites. Even in the U.S., “fries” is often used as a shorthand, especially in fast food restaurants. In Australia and New Zealand, both terms “chips” and “fries” are used interchangeably, depending on the style and thickness of the cut.
The different names reflect regional preferences and historical influences, but ultimately, whether you call them French fries, chips, frites, or something else entirely, their universal appeal remains the same.
The “Freedom Fries” Controversy
In recent history, there was a brief moment when the term “French fries” became politically charged. In 2003, during the lead-up to the Iraq War, tensions between the U.S. and France were high due to France’s opposition to the U.S. invasion. In protest, several U.S. politicians and restaurants began referring to French fries as “Freedom Fries” as a way to express dissatisfaction with France’s stance. However, this name change was short-lived, and French fries quickly returned to their original name after the political furor died down.
Conclusion
So, why are French fries called “French” if they likely originated in Belgium? The answer seems to lie in the way they are cut, the influence of French culinary techniques, and the historical associations that have linked them to France, particularly in the minds of Americans. While the origins of French fries may be disputed between France and Belgium, there’s no denying their place as one of the world’s favorite foods.
Today, French fries are not just a side dish—they’re a cultural icon, enjoyed in endless variations across the globe. Whether they’re served in fast food chains or gourmet restaurants, French fries have earned their spot as a universal comfort food, regardless of their name or origin.
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