National Fortune Cookie Day, celebrated annually on July 20, is a day dedicated to the fun and mysterious tradition of fortune cookies. These iconic treats, often associated with Chinese cuisine in America, are best known for the small slips of paper hidden inside, which contain fortunes, advice, or cryptic messages. Despite their strong association with Chinese-American culture, fortune cookies are believed to have originated in Japan, later becoming popularised in the United States in the early 20th century. This day provides an opportunity to appreciate the cultural fusion and whimsical joy that fortune cookies bring to millions of people. To celebrate National Fortune Cookies Day 2024, we bring you interesting facts about fortune cookies.

The celebration of National Fortune Cookie Day often involves enjoying a meal at a Chinese restaurant and cracking open a fortune cookie to discover your fortune. Some people take the opportunity to bake their own fortune cookies at home, adding personalised messages for friends and family. It’s a light-hearted day that encourages sharing, laughter, and a bit of playful superstition. The fortunes inside these cookies, whether taken seriously or with a grain of salt, add a touch of fun and mystery to any meal, making National Fortune Cookie Day a delightful observance. On National Fortune Cookie Day 2024, we bring you interesting facts you may not have known about the sugary delight.

1. Origins in Japan: Despite their strong association with Chinese-American cuisine, fortune cookies are believed to have originated in Japan. The traditional Japanese tsujiura senbei, a type of cracker containing a fortune, predates the American version and is still made in some regions of Japan.

2. Popularised in America: Fortune cookies were popularised in the United States by Japanese immigrants in the early 20th century, particularly in California. After World War II, Chinese restaurateurs adopted the cookie, and it became associated with Chinese-American dining.

3. Mass Production: The first automated fortune cookie machine was invented by Edward Louie in 1973. This innovation significantly increased production efficiency, allowing fortune cookies to become a staple in Chinese restaurants across the U.S.

4. Diverse Messages: The messages inside fortune cookies can range from traditional fortunes and philosophical sayings to jokes and lottery numbers. Some companies even allow for custom messages, making fortune cookies popular for personalised events like weddings and corporate functions.

5. Not Common in China: Despite their association with Chinese cuisine in the United States, fortune cookies are not a common dessert in China. Many Chinese people are unfamiliar with the treat, and they are often surprised to learn about its popularity in American-Chinese restaurants.

Fortune cookies, with their unique blend of cultural origins and whimsical charm, have carved out a special place in American dining. Originating from Japan and popularised by Japanese and Chinese immigrants in the United States, these sweet treats offer not just a tasty end to a meal but also a touch of mystery and fun. While they are not commonly found in China, their presence in Chinese-American restaurants has become an enduring tradition. Celebrated on National Fortune Cookie Day, these cookies remind us of the joy of shared meals and the delightful surprises that can come in small packages. Wishing everyone Happy National Fortune Cookies Day 2024!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 20, 2024 09:27 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).