did you know that the origin of french fries ignites a heated debate between Belgium and France Legend has it that Belgian villagers first enjoyed fried potatoes in the late 1600s during winter they would slice and Fry small fish but when the rivers froze they turned to potatoes in contrast the French claim that fries were popularized in Paris in the early 19th century the term french fries is said to have originated from American soldiers in World War I who encountered the dish in Belgium this culinary rivalry remains unresolved but one thing is clear regardless of origin french fries have become a beloved snack worldwide enjoyed in countless variations and styles