National French Fries Day 2024 Facts: Who Popularised French Fries in the US? Fascinating Things To Know About America’s Favourite Side Dish
On this day, restaurants and eateries often celebrate by offering promotions or special deals on French fries, encouraging people to indulge in their crispy goodness. Whether shoestring, crinkle-cut, curly, or thick-cut steak fries, National French Fries Day invites everyone to savour the simple pleasure of perfectly fried potatoes, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making it a delightful celebration of a classic American comfort food.
National French Fries Day in the United States, celebrated annually on the second Friday of July pays homage to one of America's favourite side dishes. French fries, crispy and golden, hold a beloved place in American culinary culture, often accompanying burgers, sandwiches, or enjoyed on their own with various dipping sauces. Originating in Belgium, French fries became popular in the US during World War I and have since evolved into a staple of fast food and casual dining menus across the country. Do you know who popularised French fries in the US? On National French Fries Day 2024, we bring fascinating facts about the favourite side dish.
To celebrate National French Fries Day 2024, restaurants and eateries often celebrate by offering promotions or special deals on French fries, encouraging people to indulge in their crispy goodness. Whether shoestring, crinkle-cut, curly, or thick-cut steak fries, National French Fries Day invites everyone to savour the simple pleasure of perfectly fried potatoes, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, making it a delightful celebration of a classic American comfort food. Find out a few fascinating facts about French fries to celebrate the day.
Belgian Origin: Despite their name, French fries actually originated in Belgium, not France. They were first mentioned in Belgian cookbooks in the 17th century and gained popularity in the US during World War I when American soldiers stationed in Belgium were introduced to them.
Thomas Jefferson: Thomas Jefferson is credited with popularizing French fries in the United States. During his presidency in the early 19th century, he served "potatoes served in the French manner" at a state dinner, which likely contributed to their spread in American cuisine.
Different Cuts: French fries come in various cuts and styles, including shoestring, crinkle-cut, steak fries, and curly fries. Each style offers a different texture and shape, catering to different preferences and dishes.
McDonald's Influence: McDonald's played a significant role in popularizing French fries worldwide. Their uniform, thin-cut fries became iconic and set the standard for fast-food fries across the globe.
Dipping Sauces: French fries are often enjoyed with a variety of dipping sauces. Popular options include ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, ranch dressing, cheese sauce, and even gravy (as in poutine, a Canadian specialty).
These facts highlight the rich history and versatility of French fries, demonstrating why they remain a beloved comfort food enjoyed by people of all ages around the world. Wishing everyone Happy National French Fries Day 2024!
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 12, 2024 06:30 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).