Americans have a deep-rooted love for French fries, as evidenced by the fact that the fried potato dish has its own national day. According to Grit, a rural lifestyle magazine, Americans consume more than 4.5 billion pounds of French fries each year. This staggering estimate surpasses the 75 million pounds of tater tots eaten annually. The popularity of French fries is evident in restaurants of all types, where they are a staple on menus across the country.
Although French fries are ubiquitous in American cuisine, not everyone knows the history behind this beloved comfort food. French fries are made from thinly sliced potatoes that are deep-fried until crispy. They are typically served hot, seasoned, and can have either a soft or crunchy consistency depending on the preparation. Commonly enjoyed for lunch or dinner, French fries come in a variety of styles including standard cut, crinkle cut, potato wedges, curly fries, steak fries, waffle fries, shoestring fries, and cottage fries.
When it comes to the type of potatoes used for French fries, popular choices include russet, Yukon gold, and sweet potatoes. Additionally, various oils such as vegetable oil, peanut oil, canola oil, safflower oil, and corn oil are used for frying, as they have a higher smoke point compared to olive oil. Some cooks opt for ovens or air fryers as an alternative method of cooking French fries when deep-frying is not an option.
While the name “French fries” suggests a French origin, multiple countries lay claim to the invention of this beloved dish. In France, the first recorded French fry recipe dates back to 1795 in Madame Mérigot’s “La Cuisinière Républicaine” cookbook. However, Belgian lore suggests that fries were created in the Meuse valley before 1680. Spain also has a claim to the invention of fries, as conquistadors were said to have brought potatoes to Europe in the 16th century. Russia has its own version of French fries known as “russe” or “cosaque,” tied to a 19th-century food vendor named Herr Krieger.
In Spain, Saint Teresa of Ávila is credited with frying potatoes in a similar fashion to French fries. The conflicting claims from various countries have fueled debates on the true origins of French fries. Despite the uncertainty, the popularity of French fries remains unquestionable, with the average American consuming nearly 34 pounds of them in a single year.
In conclusion, French fries hold a special place in American culture and cuisine. From their humble beginnings to their evolution into a beloved comfort food, the history of French fries is a testament to the enduring popularity of this simple yet satisfying dish. Whether enjoyed at a fast-food joint or a gourmet restaurant, the appeal of French fries transcends borders and continues to unite people from all walks of life in their shared love for this crispy delight.
