Why did Belgium make French fries?

Common lore claims that the original fry was born in Namur in francophone Belgium, where the locals were particularly fond of fried fish. When the River Meuse froze over one cold winter in 1680, people ostensibly fried potatoes instead of the small fish they were accustomed to, and the fry was born.

What’s so special about Belgian fries?

There is no fancy skill involved in making these crispy fries, but there is a trick. The potatoes are fried twice. The first time cooks them through and makes them tender. The second time, which can be done hours later just before serving, turns them golden brown and deliciously crisp.

What country invented French fries?

Belgium
French fries/Origins

What is the difference between Belgian and French fries?

But some people say French fries are the thinner version of fries. Belgian fries are cut thicker. You can find a “friterie” or “frituur” (a place where they only sell fries) in even the smallest town. They are served with a wide variety of sauces and snacks.

Why are french fries called Fries in Belgium?

At that time, the official language in the Belgian army was French, so the American soldiers — unaware of 3 centuries of Belgian culinary tradition — mistakenly called the fried potatoes ‘French fries’… Now you know better: fries are Belgian. That’s settled, right? Or should you say ‘chips’?

What’s the best way to make Belgian fries?

The secret to making the perfect fries is very simple – Belgian fries are double-fried. First, they are cooked, then left to cool down, and finally, just before serving, they are fried again to make them crispy and golden brown. The result is golden perfect Belgian fries that have a soft and fluffy inside and a crispy exterior.

When did French fries come to the US?

French fries (or rather Belgian fries) arrived in the US in the late 1700s. President Thomas Jefferson brought the method back to the colonies. In the UK, the first chip materialized much later in the 1870s.

What kind of Mayo do they use for Belgian fries?

But don’t forget that the topping most Belgians prefer is mayonnaise, which is also paired with most Belgian dishes. The National Side Dishes. Whether you call them French fries, pommes frites or chips, the diverse name of this particular food also varies in terms of how it is served and prepared.