If you’ve ever enjoyed crispy, golden fries, you might be surprised to learn they aren’t French at all. In Belgium, why belgians call french fries. These golden, crispy delights represent much more than a snack—they’re a cultural icon deeply rooted in Belgium’s culinary history. But why do Belgians call them frites, and how did the name “French fries” become globally popular? Let’s explore the story behind the name and its cultural significance.
The Origins of French Fries and Frites
The history of fries has layers as rich as their flavor. While many associate fries with France, historical accounts suggest Belgium as the birthplace of frites. In the 1600s, villagers in the Meuse Valley began frying potatoes during winter when frozen rivers made fishing impossible. This inventive solution created a dish that has since become a national treasure.
The term “French fries” arose during World War I. American soldiers stationed in Belgium encountered frites and mistakenly associated them with French-speaking locals. Their assumption popularized the name globally. To learn more about how frites evolved into a culinary icon, read Frites Belgian Fries: A Golden Culinary Icon.
Belgians view frites as a source of pride. Their efforts to secure UNESCO heritage recognition for their frites tradition highlight the dish’s cultural importance.
What Makes Belgian Frites Unique?
1. Superior Ingredients
Belgian frites owe their unique texture and flavor to high-quality ingredients:
- Potatoes: Cooks often choose Bintje potatoes, which provide a creamy interior and low moisture content.
- Cooking Fat: Instead of vegetable oil, they use a blend of cow and horse fat, adding depth to the flavor.
2. The Double-Frying Method
The double-frying process creates the perfect crispy exterior and soft interior:
- First Fry: Cooks fry the potatoes at a low temperature to prepare the interior.
- Second Fry: They increase the temperature for the second fry, achieving the iconic golden crunch.
If you’re curious about the meticulous craftsmanship behind this process, explore What Is Special About Belgian Frites and What’s the Difference Between Fries and Frites?
How Belgians Enjoy Their Frites
Traditional Serving Style
The presentation of frites adds to their charm:
- Vendors serve them in paper cones for portability and tradition.
- A wide variety of sauces accompany frites, including:
- Mayonnaise: The classic choice.
- Curry Ketchup: A tangy and spicy alternative.
- Sauce Andalouse: A mix of mayonnaise, tomato paste, and peppers.
Friteries: The Heart of Fry Culture
Belgium boasts over 5,000 friteries—fry stands that serve freshly made frites daily. These establishments play a significant role in Belgian street food culture. To explore another iconic dish, check out The Ultimate Belgian Waffle Recipe, which showcases Belgium’s love for culinary perfection.
FAQs
Why do Belgians call them frites?
The name frites comes from the French word for fries, reflecting their roots in Belgium’s French-speaking regions.
What is the difference between fries and frites?
Frites are thicker, double-fried, and cooked in animal fat, giving them a unique flavor and texture.
Why are frites served in cones?
The paper cone emphasizes portability and tradition, marking their place as quintessential street food.
What sauces do Belgians pair with frites?
Mayonnaise leads as the most popular choice, followed by curry ketchup and Sauce Andalouse.
How to Make Belgian Frites at Home
Ingredients
- High-starch potatoes (Bintje or Russet)
- Cow or horse fat (or beef tallow as a substitute)
- Sea salt for seasoning
Steps
- Cut and Soak: Peel and slice the potatoes into thick sticks, then soak them in cold water to remove excess starch.
- First Fry: Heat fat to 300°F and fry the potatoes in small batches for 5-7 minutes to cook the interior.
- Cool: Rest the potatoes to release moisture and prepare them for the second fry.
- Second Fry: Heat the fat to 375°F and fry the potatoes again until they turn golden and crispy.
- Serve: Sprinkle with sea salt and pair with your favorite sauce.
For tips on achieving the perfect crisp, check out What Makes Belgian Waffles Crispy, which offers insights into precise cooking techniques.
Conclusion
In Belgium, frites transcend their role as a simple snack. They represent culinary craftsmanship, cultural pride, and a tradition that has endured for centuries. From the selection of premium ingredients to the careful double-frying process, every step ensures a dish worthy of its global acclaim. Whether you enjoy them from a bustling friterie or recreate them at home, Belgian frites deliver a uniquely delicious experience.