Julienne fries are potatoes that have been cut into long, thin strips, making them resemble long matchsticks. This type of cut is called a French cut and it produces fries that are crisp, delicious, and, most importantly, uniform in size and shape. These types of fries are often preferred over steak-cut or crinkle-cut fries.

These are the perfect types of fries to accompany cheeseburgers, which is why so many fast-food restaurants serve them. If you’re a fan of these fries, then you might want to show them the respect they deserve by taking a few moments to celebrate National Julienne Fries Day on August 12th.

Some Amazing Facts About Fries Of All Kinds

We’re just going to come out and say it: We’re big fans of all different types of fries, whether they’re julienned, cut into steak fries, or made into crinkle-cut fries. And that’s why we’ve decided to list some facts about all of these types of fries below.

• Although potatoes are native to the Americas, fries were invented in Europe.
• Despite their name, French fries weren’t invented in France. They were invented in Belgium.
• U.S. President Thomas Jefferson introduced French fries to the U.S.
• Approximately 7-8% of the potatoes grown in the U.S. are made into McDonald’s French fries.
• The average American eats approximately 30 pounds of French fries per year.
• The first time French fries were mentioned in a novel was by Charles Dickens, who included them in his 1859 novel “A Tale of Two Cities.”
• Republicans in Congress tried to change the name of French fries to “freedom fries” in 2003 when France opposed the United States’ plan to invade Iraq.
• The name “freedom fries” fell out of favor with the American public by 2006.

Observing National Julienne Fries Day

This holiday is simply observed by taking the time to make some julienne fries or by ordering them from your favorite restaurant. You can serve them with a burger, fried chicken, or just about any dish you prefer.

And you can decide to serve them with ketchup or without—it all depends on your taste. While you’re enjoying your salty, crispy fries, be sure to use the hashtag #NationalJulienneFriesDay on your social media accounts to spread the word about this holiday and the fries it represents.