French fries, often simply referred to as fries, are a beloved culinary staple with a storied history. Despite their name, French fries are widely believed to have originated in Belgium. The theory suggests that in the late 1600s, villagers in the Meuse Valley would fry small fish as a dietary staple, and during the winter months when the river froze, they turned to frying sliced potatoes instead.
French-speaking soldiers from Belgium are said to have introduced the dish to American troops during World War I, who, in turn, called them “French fries” due to the language spoken in that region.
Another account credits France with the creation of fries, linking them to street vendors on Paris’s Pont Neuf in the late 18th century. The French culinary reference to “pommes frites” further supports this French connection.
Despite the debate over their origin, French fries gained popularity in the United States in the 20th century, becoming a ubiquitous side dish, particularly in fast food restaurants. Today, French fries are enjoyed worldwide in various forms, from the thin, crispy versions typical in American fast food to the thicker, double-fried Belgian frites. They remain a versatile and universally adored part of global cuisine.
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