Bon appétit #3 - French Fries: The Belgian Delight
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French fries, often simply called fries, are a beloved food enjoyed around the world. Whether served as a side dish, a snack, or even as the main course, their golden, crispy exterior and soft, fluffy interior make them an irresistible treat.
Did you know that, despite their name, French fries are from Belgium?
If you’d like to know more about the origins of French fries, their name as well as Belgium’s fries culture, then keep reading.
The origins of French fries can be traced back to Belgium, where they are known as "frites." Historical accounts suggest that the concept of frying potatoes emerged in the late 17th century. Belgian villagers in the Meuse Valley, who typically fried small fish for meals, turned to frying potatoes when the rivers froze during winter, making fish scarce. This practice is documented in the manuscript of Joseph Gérard, a historian from Namur, who noted that the locals would slice potatoes and fry them in the same way they fried fish.
The term "French fries" is believed to have been popularized by Americans who encountered these fried potatoes in Belgium around the early 20th century. As the locals who made and served the fries spoke French, the Americans nicknamed this delicious food "French fries." This name stuck when they returned to the United States, leading to a common misconception about their origin.
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In Belgium, fries are more than just a side dish; they are a cultural icon. Belgians take their fries seriously, with strict standards for preparation. Traditional Belgian fries are made from Bintje potatoes, a variety known for its fluffy texture when fried. The potatoes are typically cut into thick slices, fried twice in beef fat or oil, and served in a paper cone with a generous dollop of mayonnaise or other sauces. The double frying technique is essential, giving the fries their characteristic crispy exterior and tender interior.
I have been to Belgium a few years ago and ate fries there. I can definitely admit that these were some of the best ones I’ve had in my life.
Belgium is also home to numerous "fritkots" or fry stands, which are scattered across cities and towns. These stands offer a wide array of sauces and toppings, making a visit to a fritkot a typical Belgian experience. The country's deep-rooted fry culture even led to the establishment of the Frietmuseum in Bruges, dedicated to the history and art of fry-making.
While Belgium may be the birthplace of fries, their popularity has spread globally, with each culture adding its unique twist:
In France, they are often paired with meat in a dish known as « steak frites »
Similarly, the British dish « fish and chips » consists in fried fish served with thick-cut fries
In the United-States, fries come in various shapes and sizes, from shoestring to crinkle-cut
Canada is home to « poutine », a hearty dish of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy
Despite these variations, the essence of the fry remains the same: the combination of a crisp exterior and a fluffy interior.
French fries, or Belgian frites, are a culinary delight with a rich history and cultural significance. Their true origin in Belgium highlights the country's influence on global cuisine. Whether enjoyed plain, with sauces, or as part of an elaborate dish, fries remain a beloved food that unites people across the globe in their love for this simple yet delicious dish.
So, next time you savor a batch of crispy fries, remember their Belgian roots and the journey they have taken to become a global favorite ;)
Bon appétit!
Lilas, OLS Community Manager — French
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