Fried chicken, a beloved dish enjoyed worldwide, holds a special place in the hearts of many. Its crispy exterior and juicy interior have tantalized taste buds for centuries. But who was the first person to fry chicken? Join us on a culinary journey to uncover the origins of this delectable dish.
The Earliest Traces of Fried Chicken
The history of fried chicken can be traced back to ancient times. Archaeological evidence suggests that people in Southeast Asia were frying the wild ancestors of today’s chickens as early as 9500 years ago. However, it is unclear whether they consumed these birds or held them in high regard for religious or cultural reasons.
The Advent of Fried Chicken in Royal Kitchens
Over time, fried chicken began to appear on the tables of royalty in West Africa, China, and the Middle East. It was often prepared using a twice-cooked approach, where the chicken was first fried quickly and then braised for a more tender and juicy result. This early version of fried chicken was a delicacy reserved for special occasions.
The Birth of American-Style Fried Chicken
The 1700s marked a turning point in the history of fried chicken. Hannah Glasse, an English cook, published the first written recipe for fried chicken in her cookbook “The Art of Cookery Made Plain and Easy” in 1747. This recipe called for seasoned and floured chicken to be fried in lard.
American colonists eagerly adopted this recipe and began experimenting with their own variations. In the Southern United States, fried chicken became a staple dish for communal meals after church services. The best pieces of the bird, typically the breasts, were served to the church pastor as a sign of respect.
The Rise of Fast-Food Fried Chicken
The 20th century witnessed the advent of fast-food fried chicken. Entrepreneurs recognized the growing popularity of this dish and sought ways to make it quickly and efficiently. Kentucky Fried Chicken, Popeyes, and Chick-fil-A emerged as major players in the fast-food industry, transforming fried chicken into an international phenomenon.
Modern Innovations in Fried Chicken
The culinary world has continued to innovate with fried chicken. Chefs have experimented with different preparation techniques, marinades, and seasonings to create unique and flavorful variations. Today, fried chicken can be found in a myriad of styles, from classic Southern-fried to Korean double-fried to Japanese karaage.
The journey of fried chicken has been a long and winding one, spanning continents and cultures. From its humble origins in ancient Southeast Asia to its modern-day incarnations, fried chicken has evolved into a beloved dish enjoyed by people worldwide. Whether you prefer the classic American-style or a more exotic variation, there is a fried chicken out there to satisfy every palate.
The RACIST History of Fried Chicken #blackhistory
FAQ
Who first created fried chicken?
Why did slaves fry chicken?
What is the oldest fried chicken?
Who invented chicken fries?
Who was the first person to fry a chicken in a frying pan?
Americans weren’t the first people to stick a chicken in a frying pan, of course. Europeans have a documented history of frying chickens as far back as the Middle Ages. But it was the Scots, specifically, who preferred to deep-fry their chickens in fat.
Is fried chicken healthy?
No, it has a very high caloric content, in addition to excess saturated fats and carcinogenic compounds that are generated in the frying process.
Who invented fried chicken?
The US’ first widely accepted printed recipe for fried chicken appeared in 1824 in the first regional American cookbook, The Virginia House-Wife, authored by Mary Randolph, a white woman from a slaveholding family and a distant relative of Thomas Jefferson.
When did KFC start frying chicken?
As a legitimate fast food, Southern-style fried chicken began spreading its wings globally in the 1970s, and KFC’s influence was huge. Wherever the franchise landed, it often gave people in other countries their first taste of Southern-style fried chicken.