French fries, side dish or snack typically made from deep-fried potatoes that have been cut into various shapes, especially thin strips. Fries are often salted and served with other items, including ketchup, mayonnaise, or vinegar. In addition, they can be topped with more substantial fare, such as chili. Poutine is a Canadian dish of french fries covered with cheese curds and gravy.
The origin of french fries is uncertain. According to one tradition, they first appeared in France, where they were likely a snack sold by street peddlers. However, in more recent years Belgium has been cited as the birthplace. The source of the name is also disputed. One oft-repeated claim is that a U.S. soldier who tasted the dish while in the Belgian city of Namur during World War I coined the term. What is not debated is the popularity of french fries, which grew exponentially after they became a staple item at many fast-food restaurants.
Although Russet potatoes are typically used, other types of potatoes can also be used to make French fries. Sweet potatoes are also occasionally utilized. The potatoes are sliced into a variety of forms, including thin strips, wedges, and curls. The pieces are dried and then usually cooked in a deep fryer following the optional but advised blanching stage. French fries’ high fat content, which is caused by the oil, is associated with diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Using salt to flavor food also puts the heart at risk. Many fast-food businesses, including McDonald’s, discontinued using oil containing trans fat in the early 21st century due to mounting health concerns.
Domestication and history
It is believed that potatoes have undergone multiple distinct domestications and were primarily grown by the Incas in South America as early as 1,800 years ago. In the latter part of the 16th century, potatoes were brought to Europe by the Spanish invaders. The plant was a large crop in Ireland by the end of the 17th century, and it was also a major crop in continental Europe, especially Germany, and the west of England by the end of the 18th century. Throughout the first four decades of the 19th century, it extended further in both the Western and Eastern hemispheres, and the potato eventually formed a major part of the Irish economy.