The origin of Belgian fries goes back to the 17th century. In those days, people in Belgium’s Meuse Valley region were already slicing potatoes and frying them.
Then why are they called ‘French fries’?
During World War I (1914-1918), American soldiers who fought in Belgium were introduced to fries, of course. 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’?
French fries or French-fried potatoes, chips or finger chips, frieten or frites: it’s no surprise that such a delicacy has been given so many names.
And in fact, we don’t mind all that much. As long as you Go For Gold, and know where to find Original Belgian Fries.
