National Eggs Benedict Day is celebrated every year on April 16th to honor the beloved breakfast or brunch dish, Eggs Benedict. This dish typically consists of poached eggs, Canadian bacon or ham, and tangy Hollandaise sauce atop toasted English muffin halves. Its origins are surrounded by fascinating stories, making it a culinary legend.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: April 16th
- Tagged as: Food, Breakfast, Brunch
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalEggsBenedictDay
- When was it founded?: Exact founding date unknown, but the dish dates back to the late 1800s.
- Who founded it?: No specific founder for the day; however, Lemuel Benedict and Charles Ranhofer are credited with popularizing the dish.
History of National Eggs Benedict Day
The origins of Eggs Benedict are debated. One story credits Lemuel Benedict, a Wall Street broker, who in 1894 ordered toast, poached eggs, bacon, and Hollandaise sauce at the Waldorf Hotel to cure a hangover. Chef Oscar Tschirky modified the recipe and added it to the menu. Another version suggests that Charles Ranhofer of Delmonico’s restaurant created the dish in the 1860s for Mrs. LeGrand Benedict. Earlier accounts even link Pope Benedict XIII to an egg dish he adored.
Timeline
- 1837: Delmonico’s Restaurant opens in New York City.
- 1860s: Eggs Benedict is reportedly created at Delmonico’s.
- 1894: The first printed recipe for Eggs Benedict appears in Charles Ranhofer’s cookbook.
- 1942: Lemuel Benedict shares his story in The New Yorker.
- 1967: Edward P. Montgomery claims Commodore E.C. Benedict invented the dish.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | April 16 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | April 16 | Thursday |
| 2027 | April 16 | Friday |
| 2028 | April 16 | Sunday |
| 2029 | April 16 | Monday |
| 2030 | April 16 | Tuesday |
Observed
National Eggs Benedict Day is celebrated by indulging in this classic dish at home or at restaurants. Many people experiment with variations such as smoked salmon (Eggs Royale) or vegetarian options like spinach (Eggs Florentine).
Fun Facts About National Eggs Benedict Day
- Eggs Benedict has been adapted worldwide with unique toppings like crab cakes or avocado.
- Hollandaise sauce is one of the five “mother sauces” in French cuisine.
- The dish is a staple on brunch menus globally.
Quiz
- What are the main ingredients in traditional Eggs Benedict?
- Who is credited with popularizing Eggs Benedict at Delmonico’s?
- What sauce is used in Eggs Benedict?
(Answers: 1. Poached eggs, English muffins, Canadian bacon/ham, Hollandaise sauce; 2. Charles Ranhofer; 3. Hollandaise sauce)
FAQs
Q: When is National Eggs Benedict Day?
A: It’s celebrated annually on April 16th.
Q: What is Eggs Benedict?
A: A breakfast dish made with poached eggs, Canadian bacon/ham, and Hollandaise sauce atop English muffins.
Q: Can I make variations of Eggs Benedict?
A: Yes! Try smoked salmon (Eggs Royale) or spinach (Eggs Florentine).
Importance of National Eggs Benedict Day
This day celebrates a culinary classic that has stood the test of time, showcasing creativity in cuisine and honoring its rich history.
Related
- National Egg McMuffin Day
- World Egg Day
- National Grilled Cheese Month
- Save The Elephant Day