National French Fry French Fry Day

Group of friends enjoying a plate of french fries at a picnic in a sunny park, wearing casual summer outfits with sunglasses, creating a cheerful and relaxed atmosphere.. — National french fry french fry day illustration

Hey there, fellow fry enthusiasts! Get ready to celebrate because it's National French Fry Day! That's right, it's time to indulge in everyone's favorite crispy, golden snack. So, grab your ketchup, mustard, or even mayonnaise (we won't judge) and let's dive into the delicious history of this greasy celebration.

When is French Fry French Fry Day?

It's national french fry french fry day on the 15th July.

The Birth of the French Fry

When it comes to finger foods, French fries are the true MVPs. But have you ever wondered about their origin? Well, let's take a trip back in time to 17th-century France, where the first recorded mention of French fries can be found. It is believed that French fries were actually inspired by a Belgian dish called 'frites.' In fact, the term 'French fry' only caught on during World War I when American soldiers were served 'French fries' by French-speaking Belgian soldiers. The rest, as they say, is history!

Fry Fanatics Unite!

Nowadays, French fries have become a beloved food worldwide. From fast-food joints to gourmet restaurants, they're practically a universal language of deliciousness. Whether you prefer shoestring fries, curly fries, waffle fries, or sweet potato fries, there's a fry for every taste bud.

Celebrating National French Fry Day is a fry-tastic opportunity to show some appreciation for these crispy delights. Treat yourself to a big plate of fries, invite your friends for a fry feast, or participate in a French fry eating contest (if you're feeling extra hungry and competitive).

A Fry for All Occasions

French fries are not just a tasty treat; they also come in handy for various occasions. Need a side dish for your burger? French fries got you covered. Planning a movie night? Don't forget the fries! And let's not forget poutine, a Canadian masterpiece consisting of fries smothered in cheese curds and gravy. It's the ultimate comfort food!

History behind the term 'French Fry French Fry'

1600s

The Origins of Fried Potatoes

During the 1600s, fried potatoes first made their appearance in the culinary world. It is believed that French chef François Louis Bracq, who served in the French army, was the one to introduce this delightful dish. He started cutting potatoes into long, thin strips and frying them until they were crispy and golden brown.

1690

Origin of the potato

The history of French fries dates back to the late 17th century when potatoes were introduced to Europe. Potatoes, which originated in Peru, were initially met with skepticism and resistance but eventually gained popularity as a crop due to their versatility and ability to grow in various climates.

1680

The Origins of the French Fry

The term 'french fry' originated in 17th century France, during the reign of Louis XIV. French fries were initially known as 'frites' or 'pommes frites', meaning 'fried potatoes' in French. The popular theory suggests that French fries were first introduced by street vendors who sold fried potatoes to the locals and visitors in Paris.

1670

The Origins

Believe it or not, French fries did not initially come from France. It all began in the late 17th century in the Spanish-influenced region of the Meuse Valley, located in modern-day Belgium and the Netherlands. The inhabitants of this area, particularly the French-speaking locals, used to cook thinly sliced potatoes as a crispy accompaniment to their meals.

1789

The Introduction of the Potato to France

In 1789, the potato was introduced to France, initially seen as a luxury food item for the elite due to its rarity. However, it quickly gained popularity among the lower classes due to its availability and versatility in cooking.

1680

Early Origins of Fries

French fries can be traced back to the late 17th century in France. It is believed that the French first began cutting potatoes into long, thin strips and frying them. This early version of fries was known as 'pommes frites,' which translates to 'fried potatoes' in English.

1690

The Birth of a Culinary Delight

The term 'french fry' originated in the late 17th century in the French-speaking region of Belgium. It is believed that the people of this region were the first to start cutting potatoes into long, thin strips and frying them in hot oil. These crispy and golden delights became immensely popular in the area and quickly spread to neighboring countries.

17th century

Origins of fried potatoes

The history of French fries goes back to the 17th century when potatoes were introduced to Europe. It is believed that the concept of frying potatoes originated in either France or Belgium, both of which claim to be the birthplace of the French fry. However, the precise origins remain uncertain.

Late 1600s

Potatoes find their way to Europe

In the late 1600s, potatoes were introduced to Europe from the Americas. Initially met with skepticism and suspicion, they were eventually embraced by European countries, including France.

1710

The Origin of Pomme frites

In the early 18th century, the concept of the French fry was actually introduced by French chef François Louis Le Clerc, also known as Chef Louis. He first started serving thin strips of fried potatoes in Paris, and these delicious treats were called 'pomme frites,' which translates to 'fried apples' in French. Despite the name, they were made from potatoes.

Early 1800s

Origin of the 'French Fry'

The origin of the term 'French Fry' can be traced back to the early 1800s in France. It is believed that street vendors in Paris began selling deep-fried potatoes as a popular snack, which they called 'pommes frites' (meaning fried potatoes in French).

1781

Introduction to the United States

The term 'french fry' made its way to the United States during the American Revolutionary War. French soldiers who supported the American cause introduced this delectable treat to the American soldiers. The American soldiers loved them so much that they began referring to them as 'french fries' in honor of the French soldiers who introduced them to this delicious dish.

1781

Introducing French Fries to America

French fries made their way across the Atlantic Ocean thanks to American Revolutionary War hero Thomas Jefferson. While serving as the United States Minister to France, Jefferson tasted pomme frites and loved them so much that he decided to bring the recipe back home to America. He is often credited with introducing French fries to the United States.

Late 18th century

Fried potatoes gain popularity in France

During the late 18th century, fried potatoes started gaining popularity in France. It is said that French chef François Louis Armand Point, the inventor of nouvelle cuisine, played a significant role in promoting the consumption of French fries among the French population. His innovative cooking techniques and emphasis on flavor had a lasting impact on French cuisine.

1781

The Term 'French Fry'

The term 'French fry' gained prominence during the 18th century when Frenchman and military officer, Antoine-Augustin Parmentier, introduced potatoes as a staple food in France. Parmentier played a significant role in popularizing potatoes, even after facing initial resistance due to their association with poverty. As potatoes became a common part of French cuisine, the thinly sliced, deep-fried potatoes became known as 'French fries.'

1781

French fried potatoes in America

French fries made their way to America during the American Revolutionary War. French soldiers introduced these fried potato sticks to Thomas Jefferson, who is said to have served them at the White House during his presidency. The term 'French fries' is believed to have originated from the French language and was used to describe the cooking method of frying sliced potatoes.

1793

The French Revolution and Cuisine Changes

During the French Revolution in 1793, there was a significant shift in culinary habits. The revolution resulted in the downfall of the aristocracy, leading to a more egalitarian society. As a result, traditional dishes were reinvented, and potatoes became a staple in French cuisine.

1781

The American French Fry Connection

The term 'french fry' made its way to the United States during the American Revolutionary War. It is believed that American soldiers serving in France during the war were introduced to the delicious fried potatoes. The soldiers then brought the concept back to America, where 'french fries' became a popular term for fried potatoes.

1781

Introduction to America

French fries made their way to America when Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, served them at a White House dinner in 1802. He had come across them during his time in France and brought the recipe back with him. These fries became popular throughout the country over time.

Late 1700s

Thomas Jefferson and Potatoes

In the late 1700s, Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, visited France and became enamored with their cuisine. He encountered fried potatoes during his time there and brought the recipe back to Virginia. Jefferson is often credited with introducing fried potatoes, which eventually became known as 'French fries,' to the United States.

1875

Introduction to America

French fries made their way to the United States in the late 19th century. It is believed that they were introduced by Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States. During his time as the Ambassador to France, Jefferson encountered French cuisine, including fried potatoes, which he then introduced to America. However, it wasn't until the early 20th century that French fries gained popularity among Americans.

1853

Thomas Jefferson and the French Fry Recipe

In the early 19th century, Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, is said to have brought a recipe for 'french fries' back from France. He loved the crispy potatoes and even served them at the White House during his presidency. Thomas Jefferson's influence played a significant role in popularizing 'french fries' in the United States.

1802

The Emergence of the 'Pommes de Terre Frites'

In 1802, the term 'Pommes de Terre Frites' (fried potatoes) first appeared in French cookbooks. It referred to sliced or diced potatoes that were fried until crispy. These early versions of what we now know as French fries were typically fried in animal fat.

1874

Patenting the French Fryer

The first patent for a French fryer was granted to a man named William K. Kirby in 1874. This invention revolutionized the cooking process of french fries, making it easier and more efficient to fry them in large quantities. The invention of the French fryer contributed to the widespread popularity of french fries and their availability in restaurants and food establishments.

World War I

Introduction to the United States

During World War I, American soldiers stationed in Belgium and Northern France encountered 'pommes frites' and were enamored with the crispy deliciousness. They brought their newfound love for French fries back to the United States.

1813

First appearance in a cookbook

The first documented recipe for French fries appeared in 'The Cook's Oracle' by William Kitchiner, a British physician and food writer. The recipe described thinly slicing potatoes and frying them until crisp, resembling what we now know as French fries. This cookbook helped popularize the term 'French fries' in the culinary world.

Early 1900s

The Rise of Fast Food

In the early 1900s, the popularity of French fries grew significantly due to the emergence of fast-food restaurants. One of the major contributors to their rise was the fast-food chain McDonald's, founded by Richard and Maurice McDonald in 1940. McDonald's popularized French fries by making them a staple item on their menu and by perfecting the process of frying them to achieve a crispy exterior and a soft interior.

World War I

Introduction of 'French fries' in the United States

During World War I, American soldiers stationed in Belgium were introduced to fried potatoes, which were referred to as 'French fries' due to the predominant language spoken in the region. The soldiers brought their new-found love for French fries back home to the United States, where the term was adopted and became popularized.

1917

The Term 'French Fry' is Coined

The term 'French fry' first appeared in print in the United States in 1917. The USA Food Administration during World War I referred to deep-fried potatoes as 'French fried potatoes' to distinguish them from fried potatoes of German origin. 'French fry' gradually became the common term used to describe this beloved potato snack.

1877

The Beginnings of the Term 'French Fry'

As French fries gained popularity in the United States, the term 'French fry' started to be used to describe the fried potatoes. The adjective 'French' was added due to the belief that the cooking method was typical in French cuisine. The term stuck and became widely used to refer to this beloved fast food staple.

1950s

Rapid rise in popularity

In the 1950s, fast food chains like McDonald's started to proliferate in the United States. They popularized the humble French fry, making it a staple side dish in the American diet. This widespread availability and promotion boosted the popularity of French fries even further.

1838

The Name 'French Fried Potatoes' Gains Popularity

During the late 1830s, French fries gained popularity outside of France, particularly in the United States. English-speaking Americans often referred to them as 'French fried potatoes' due to the cooking technique and their association with French cuisine.

1875

Naming the French fry

The term 'French fries' became widely recognized as the name for this popular fried potato dish by the late 19th century. It is believed that the term 'French' was used to associate the cooking technique with France, known for its culinary expertise. Despite the name, French fries are enjoyed around the world and have become a staple in many cuisines.

1950

Rise of Fast Food Chains

The 1950s marked the rise of fast-food chains in America, and French fries became a staple item on their menus. McDonald's, for example, gained popularity by serving crispy, golden French fries that soon became an iconic part of their brand. This presence in fast-food chains further solidified the association of French fries with American cuisine.

1922

McDonald's Introduces Its Signature Fries

In 1922, the famous fast-food chain McDonald's was established and introduced its iconic french fries to the world. The thin-cut, perfectly seasoned and crispy fries quickly became a fan favorite. McDonald's french fries are now known and loved globally, showcasing the cultural impact and popularity of the term 'french fry'.

1950s

Rise of Fast Food Chains and French Fries

With the rise of fast food chains such as McDonald's and Burger King in the 1950s, French fries became even more popular. Fast food restaurants made French fries a standard side dish with burgers and sandwiches. This further solidified the ubiquity and cultural significance of French fries in American cuisine.

1870

Belgium's Take on French Fries

While the term 'french fry' had already gained popularity in the United States, it wasn't until the late 19th century that Belgian cuisine put its unique twist on the fried potatoes. Belgian street vendors started selling 'frites', which were thinly cut, double-fried potatoes. These 'frites' gained worldwide recognition and are often considered one of Belgium's culinary specialties.

1950s

Fast food boom and the rise of French fries

The post-World War II era witnessed the rise of the fast food industry in the United States. French fries quickly became a popular side dish served in fast food restaurants, particularly in burger joints. The convenience, deliciousness, and affordability of French fries contributed to their widespread popularity, solidifying their position as a staple in American fast food culture.

After 1918

World War I Influence

During World War I, American soldiers stationed in Belgium and Northern France were introduced to French fries. They brought the love for this crispy delight back to the states, leading to its widespread popularity. The term 'French fry' became firmly rooted in American culinary vocabulary.

1982

Belgium Claims Ownership

In 1982, Belgium declared French fries as their national dish. Despite the name 'French fries,' the Belgians argued that they were the true inventors of this culinary delight. Belgian fries are traditionally served with various sauces, such as mayonnaise, and are an integral part of their cultural heritage. This declaration sparked debates and playful controversies over the origin of the term 'French fries.'

1875

The Term 'French Fry' Shortens

By 1875, the name 'French fry' had become widely used. The term 'fry' became synonymous with the process of deep-frying food, and the adjective 'French' was dropped, simplifying the name to 'French fry'. This name has stuck with the popular fried potato dish ever since.

21st Century

Global Popularity and Variations

In the 21st century, French fries have become a beloved and globally recognized food. They are now popular in numerous countries across the world, each with its own unique variations and serving styles. From loaded chili cheese fries in the United States to poutine in Canada, French fries have evolved and adapted to suit different cultural preferences and tastes, further cementing their status as a beloved dish worldwide.

1998

National French Fry Day

In recent years, the term 'french fry' has gained even more recognition and celebration with the establishment of National French Fry Day on July 13th. This day encourages people to indulge in their favorite french fries from various sources, be it fast-food chains, restaurants, or homemade creations. It serves as a reminder of the cultural significance and enjoyment associated with this beloved culinary treat.

Present day

Global popularity and variations

French fries have transcended borders and are now a beloved food around the world. They come in various styles, including thin-cut fries, steak fries, waffle fries, curly fries, and more. Additionally, different countries have their own unique variations of French fries, such as poutine in Canada, wedges in the United Kingdom, and patatas bravas in Spain.

Present

Global recognition and variations

Today, French fries are enjoyed in various forms and with diverse toppings around the world. From classic shoestring fries to loaded cheesy fries, they have become a beloved snack and accompaniment to burgers and other meals in countless cultures.

1982

The French Fry Capital of the World

Idaho, a state known for its abundant potato production, declared itself the 'French Fry Capital of the World' in 1982. Idaho boasts ideal conditions for growing high-quality potatoes, and remains one of the leading producers of potatoes in the United States. The title further highlighted the cultural significance of French fries in American food culture.

1984

National French Fry Day is Established

In 1984, the National Potato Promotion Board designated July 13th as National French Fry Day in the United States. This day celebrates the beloved French fry and recognizes its contribution to American culture. It has since become an annual celebration, encouraging people to enjoy and appreciate this classic snack.

1949

The French Refer to Them as American Fries

In a peculiar turn of events, the French started referring to 'french fries' as 'pommes de terre frites', meaning 'fried potatoes' or sometimes 'American Fries'. This change in terminology occurred after World War II when American soldiers stationed in France reintroduced the fried potato dish, creating a perceived association between the food and the United States.

1950

Fast Food Phenomenon

The advent of fast food in the 1950s brought French fries even more into the mainstream. With the rise of drive-through restaurants and the emergence of fast-food chains like McDonald's, French fries became an iconic side dish in American culture.

21st Century

Global Popularity

French fries have achieved worldwide recognition, becoming a beloved favorite in numerous countries. From the traditional Belgian frites to the British chips, French fries have been adapted and enjoyed in various forms and flavors throughout the world. Today, they are an integral part of the fast-food industry and a ubiquitous presence on menus worldwide.

Present Day

Global Popularity

French fries have transcended borders and are now enjoyed worldwide. They have become a staple in numerous cuisines and are often served with a variety of toppings and dipping sauces. Whether you call them 'frites,' 'chips,' or 'papas fritas,' the cultural impact of the term 'French fry' and its association with delicious deep-fried potatoes is undeniable.

Did you know?

Did you know that Thomas Jefferson is credited with introducing French fries to America? As the United States' ambassador to France, he became a fan of these crispy wonders and served them at the White House during his presidency. Talk about presidential taste!