The Misleading Origins of French Toast and French Fries

Surprised by the origin being a lie? The popular food items French toast and French fries are often misunderstood due to their names. Let's dive into the truth behind these culinary frauds.

French Toast: Not from France

One of the most common misconceptions is that French toast originated in France. This could not be further from the truth. Back in the 3rd century AD, the first recorded phenomenon resembling French toast was noted in Rome. At that time, France did not exist, just like how French fries are not from France either.

French toast as we know it today has evolved significantly. The earliest origins of a bread dipped in eggs and milk were first mentioned in a collection of Roman cookery recipes, known as Apicius. This ancient Roman cookbook provides insight into a food preparation that is centuries before the invention of sliced bread in 1928.

The English Origin Theory

Despite the Roman origins, a more popular theory among food historians states that French toast was coined by the English in the 15th century. A period of economic hardship forced noble families to find substitutes for French crepes when they could not afford them. This led to the invention of dipping stale bread in a mixture of milk, eggs, and spices and cooking it on a griddle. This method is still commonly used today in many forms, and some even refer to it as “Poor Knights” in German, suggesting a more humble origin.

French Fries: Not from France

When it comes to French Fries, the misconception is just as prevalent. Believe it or not, the name "French fries" is misleading as well. These crispy, golden wonders originate from Belgium. It is said that they were first made in the French-speaking region, Wallonia, but the term "French fries" is a misnomer that dates back to the 20th century.

According to food historians Jo Gérard and Pierre Leclerq, two independent Belgian scholars, French fries are "French" because they are potatoes soaked in hot oil and fried. The term "French fries" in the United States is thought to have come about in the late 19th or early 20th century, although the item itself likely originated much earlier.

The Truth Behind the Names

So, where does the name come from then? Historical records show that the term "French toast" was not used until the 17th century, long after the true origins of the dish. Many cultures had their form of dipped bread before the name was attached to it. The origin of "French fries" is also shrouded in mystery, but it is clear that the term is a misnomer.

It's important to debunk these origin myths and understand the true historical backgrounds of these beloved foods. While the names "French toast" and "French fries" remain, the actual origins of these dishes are a testament to the global nature of food and the creative adaptations that people have made for thousands of years.