What the French Call Fried Potatoes and Why

Fried potatoes, often lovingly referred to as French fries, have a rich history and diverse names across different cultures. While the term French fries is commonly used in English-speaking countries, there are distinct names and meanings in French and other languages.

French Fries in French

In France and other French-speaking regions, fried potatoes are not known as French fries. Instead, they are called pommes frites (literally, fried apples), or more casually, just frites. This term is used throughout France and Belgium, where the dish is deeply cherished and enjoyed.

Origins and Names

The origin of French fries is often credited to Belgium, where they are a staple cuisine. However, the term French fries is more of a linguistic misunderstanding. The English term French fries actually refers to the way the potatoes are cut, which is into long strips, or French cut. This led to the term Frenched, which over time morphed into French fries.

Historical Context

The name French frites in French is often misrepresented. In French, the correct term for eating potatoes in this form is pommes de terre frites, meaning fried potatoes. This name is derived from the French word for potato, which is pommes de terre.

The French Revolution Connection

It's worth noting that the potato played a crucial role in France's history. In 1771, the potato was introduced by Antoine-Augustin Parmentier in response to a growing famine that was a major factor in the French Revolution. The fried form of the potato served as a symbol of sustenance during these challenging times, helping to feed the population and save them from starvation.

Conclusion

While the term French fries is widely used around the world, it is essential to understand the true meaning and linguistic origins of this beloved dish. In French, the correct name is pommes frites, and this reflects both the history and the cultural significance of this versatile and popular food.