National Cassoulet Day is an annual celebration held on January 9 to honor the rich and hearty French dish known as cassoulet. This traditional casserole, originating from Southern France, is typically made with white beans, duck or goose confit, sausages, and various meats such as pork or mutton. The dish is slow-cooked to perfection, making it the ultimate comfort food for cold winter days.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: January 9
- Tagged as: Food & Drink, French Cuisine, Comfort Food
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalCassouletDay
- When was it founded?: Early 21st century
- Who founded it?: Benoit Bistro in New York City
History of National Cassoulet Day
Cassoulet has its roots in the Languedoc region of France and dates back to the 14th century. According to legend, the dish was first created in Castelnaudary during the Hundred Years’ War when locals gathered available ingredients to create a hearty stew that would sustain their soldiers. Over time, cassoulet became a symbol of French peasant cuisine, evolving into a beloved dish across France and beyond. In the early 2000s, Benoit Bistro in New York City officially established National Cassoulet Day to celebrate this iconic dish.
Timeline
- 14th Century: Cassoulet is believed to have originated in Castelnaudary during the Hundred Years’ War.
- 1920s: The term “cassoulet” becomes widely used in France.
- 1999: The Grande Confrérie du Cassoulet is formed to protect and promote authentic cassoulet recipes.
- Early 21st Century: National Cassoulet Day is officially recognized in the U.S.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Jan | 9 | Thursday |
| 2026 | Jan | 9 | Friday |
| 2027 | Jan | 9 | Saturday |
| 2028 | Jan | 9 | Sunday |
| 2029 | Jan | 9 | Tuesday |
Observed
National Cassoulet Day is observed by French restaurants and food lovers around the world. Many people celebrate by either making their own cassoulet at home or visiting a restaurant that serves this traditional dish. In New York City, where the holiday originated, some restaurants host week-long cassoulet festivals featuring different variations of the dish.
Fun Facts About Cassoulet
- The town of Castelnaudary hosts an annual Cassoulet Festival every August.
- Traditional cassoulet can take up to two days to prepare.
- The name “cassoulet” comes from cassole, the earthenware pot used to cook the dish.
Quiz
- Where did cassoulet originate?
- What are the main ingredients of cassoulet?
- When is National Cassoulet Day celebrated?
(Answers: 1. Southern France (Castelnaudary), 2. White beans, duck or goose confit, sausages, various meats, 3. January 9)
FAQs
Q: Can I make cassoulet at home?
A: Yes! While traditional recipes can be time-consuming, there are simplified versions available online.
Q: What meats are typically used in cassoulet?
A: Common meats include duck or goose confit, pork, sausage, and sometimes lamb or mutton.
Importance of National Cassoulet Day
National Cassoulet Day highlights not only a delicious dish but also a piece of culinary history that has been passed down through generations. It’s a day that brings people together around a warm meal that embodies comfort and tradition.
Related Celebrations
- National French Fry Day
- National Comfort Food Day
- International Casserole Day