Despite their name, French fries are not originally from France but hail from Belgium. There is historical evidence suggesting that the people of Belgium were preparing these delicious fried potatoes as early as the 1600s. The confusion about their origin is partly due to language and cultural associations. Belgians in the region spoke French, which likely contributed to the name. During World War I, American soldiers stationed in Belgium were introduced to the fried potatoes and, because the dominant language of the army was French, they referred to them as "French fries."
The basics of the dish involve slicing potatoes into thin strips and frying them in oil until they are crispy on the outside but still soft on the inside. This method of cooking potatoes was particularly useful in Belgium, especially during the colder months when fishing was not feasible, and the rivers froze over. Locals who commonly relied on a diet that included a lot of fish found frying potatoes to be an excellent alternative.
Over time, the popularity of French fries spread globally, becoming a staple in numerous cuisines and fast food menus around the world. They are enjoyed with a variety of condiments such as ketchup, mayonnaise, vinegar, and specialty dipping sauces in various countries. Despite the global fame and its strong association with fast food in America and other parts of the world, the humble French fry remains a point of national pride in Belgium, where locals continue to dispute the French naming, asserting their claim as the true originators of this universally loved food.
