Whether you enjoy them alongside burgers and sandwiches or make them a meal of their own, French fries are a fast food staple around the world. Though their name suggests they come from France, these beloved fried potato strips have a very different yet no less fascinating history. Read on to learn more about their origins and evolution. 

The History & Evolution of French Fries

Belgian Roots

French fries have a misleading name, as they don’t originate in France. They actually come from Belgium, where villagers began to fry potatoes as early as the 17th century. When the Meuse Valley river froze during the winter, the locals could no longer fish for survival, which prompted them to experiment with potatoes. They sliced and fried these root vegetables much in the same way they would normally prepare the fish. 

They’re called French fries because one of the three official languages of Belgium is French. When American soldiers entered Belgium during World War I and had their first taste of these crispy potatoes, they associated them with the spoken language, thus calling them French fries. The name quickly caught on and is still used in fast food restaurants around the world today.

International Variations

Every country has its unique way of preparing and eating these potato delights. Though ketchup is the primary choice of condiment in the United States, mayonnaise is the go-to dipping sauce in the Netherlands. In Canada, poutine is a popular dish that features fries topped with gravy and cheese curds. Masala chips, eaten in Kenya, are a spicy take on this fast food classic, topped with cumin, chili powder, and masala. 

The next time you have a craving for French fries, make Steve T. Hots & Potatoes your top destination. This 24-hour restaurant, located in Rochester, NY, offers a complete menu of fast food favorites, including cheeseburger plates, hot dogs, chicken fingers, and fried fish. Call (585) 429-6388 to ask about daily specials and visit them online to learn more about breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes.