Introduction
Chips are one of the most popular snacks around the world. From potato chips to tortilla chips, these crunchy treats can be found in virtually every kitchen pantry. But how did chips come to be? What is the origin story behind our beloved snack? In this article, we explore the history of chips and uncover the mystery behind their invention.
Historical Overview of Invention of Chips
The concept of fried slices of potatoes has been around for centuries. According to food historian Sarah Lohman, “the idea of frying thin slices of potatoes didn’t originate with the potato chip. It was a method that had been used for centuries to make dishes like frites, or French fries.” The French, Belgians, and Dutch had all been making similar fried potato snacks since at least the 17th century.
However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that chips became a popular snack. According to Lohman, it was during this time that restaurants began serving fried potato slices as appetizers. This practice soon caught on and chips began popping up in restaurants across the United States.
The Evolution of Chips
The modern-day chips we know and love today evolved from fried potatoes. According to the Smithsonian Magazine, “potato chips were originally made by slicing potatoes into thin strips, soaking them in cold water to remove the starch, and then frying them in hot oil.” This process was first documented in 1853 by chef George Crum, who is widely credited with inventing the potato chip.
Crum had created the chips as a way to satisfy a customer’s complaint about the thickness of the restaurant’s french fries. He sliced the potatoes very thin, fried them in oil, and served them to the customer, who was so pleased with the result that he asked for more. Crum’s creation soon became known as “Saratoga chips” and was served in other restaurants across the country.
In the late 1800s, an entrepreneur named William Tappendon began mass-producing potato chips and selling them in tins. His company, Tappendon’s Potato Chip Company, was the first to commercially produce and sell chips. This marked the beginning of the modern era of chips, as they began appearing in stores and becoming a popular snack.
Who Invented Chips and When?
As mentioned earlier, chef George Crum is widely credited with inventing chips. According to the Smithsonian Magazine, “Crum is credited with inventing the potato chip in August 1853 at Moon’s Lake House in Saratoga Springs, New York.” Crum’s chips were thin, crispy, and salty, and quickly became a hit with customers.
William Tappendon is also credited with playing an important role in the commercialization of chips. He is credited with mass-producing and selling chips in tins, which allowed them to be sold in stores and become a popular snack. Without Tappendon’s contributions, chips might not have become the beloved snack they are today.
Conclusion
The invention of chips is a fascinating story that spans centuries and cultures. While the exact origins of chips remain unclear, it is widely accepted that chef George Crum invented the potato chip in 1853 and that William Tappendon played an important role in the commercialization of chips. Today, chips are enjoyed around the world and have become a beloved snack.
This article has explored the history of chips and uncovered the mystery behind their invention. We hope it has sparked your interest and encouraged you to further explore the topic.
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