Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and perfect with ketchup: French fries are one of the world's favorite foods. National French Fry Day, on July 13, celebrates fries in all their forms, from shoestring and steak fries to waffle fries, curly fries and sweet potato fries. Americans eat billions of pounds of fries each year, making them a true national favorite.
History of National French Fry Day
Potatoes originated in the Andes Mountains of South America, where they were domesticated thousands of years ago. Spanish explorers brought them to Europe in the 1500s.
Who invented fried potatoes is debated. Belgians say people in the Meuse Valley fried potatoes in the late 1600s when the river froze and they could not fry fish, though historians question this story. The French say fried potatoes were sold by street vendors in Paris near the Pont Neuf in the late 1700s.
In the United States, Thomas Jefferson served 'potatoes served in the French manner' at a White House dinner in 1802. A popular story says American soldiers in Belgium during World War I called them 'French fries' because the local soldiers spoke French. In the 1940s and 1950s, frozen fries were developed, and fast-food restaurants made fries a standard side. Who started National French Fry Day is not documented.
Why National French Fry Day Matters
French fries are one of the most popular foods in the world, and their history spans continents, from the Andes to Europe to America.
Potatoes are an important crop for farmers, especially in Idaho, Washington and other states.
Making fries at home also teaches cooking science: soaking cut potatoes removes starch, and frying twice creates the crispiest results.
How to Celebrate National French Fry Day
- Make fries at home: try the double-fry method for crispness.
- Try oven or air-fryer fries: enjoy a lighter version.
- Explore dips: try aioli, malt vinegar or fry sauce.
- Try a global style: make Belgian fries with mayonnaise or Canadian poutine.
- Visit a local spot: support a restaurant known for fries.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, a fry bar with different seasonings and dips is a fun lunch treat. In classrooms, students can learn about the history of the potato, debate the Belgium-versus-France claim, or explore the science of frying. At home, families can make oven fries together, with children seasoning and tossing potatoes, or hold a fry taste test. Adults should handle hot oil to prevent burns.
Fun Facts About National French Fry Day
- Potatoes were domesticated in the Andes Mountains.
- Thomas Jefferson served fries at the White House in 1802.
- Belgium and France both claim to have invented fries.
National French Fry Day FAQs
When is National French Fry Day?
National French Fry Day is July 13.
Were French fries invented in France?
Both France and Belgium claim them; the origin is debated.
Why are they called French fries?
One story says WWI soldiers in Belgium named them after the French-speaking locals.
How do I make crispy fries?
Soak cut potatoes, dry them and fry twice.