National Coquilles Saint Jacques Day 2023: National Coquilles Saint Jacques Day is observed annually on May 16 to recognise ‘the Shell of St. James,’ an alternative term for the popular seafood scallops. In France, the coquille is a specific species of scallop, and only coquille may be used for this dish. This dish is composed of butter, cream, mushrooms, and cheese. In regions where the coquille cannot be found, however, people can use any type of scallop and prepare them in a variety of methods.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL COQUILLES SAINT JACQUES DAY
National Coquilles Saint Jacques Day is an uncommon holiday, the origin of which is unknown, but it has a lengthy history.
It is believed that the scallop shell represents one of Jesus’ twelve apostles, St. James. According to urban legends, scallop shells served as water and food containers for pilgrims travelling to Santiago de Compostela. On the front of dwellings used by pilgrims as resting points, scallop shell carvings can be found.
“Coquilles Saint Jacques” refers to scallops prepared in a particular French manner. The majority of king scallops in France originate from the Atlantic and are known as St. James scallops. There is a prevalent theory regarding the origin of the dish’s name. According to legend, St. James rescued a knight from drowning, and when the knight emerged from the water, he was covered in shells; thus, the expression “shells of St. James” arose. It should be noted, however, that the dish is not explicitly associated with St. Jacques/James and only derives its name from him.
The dish has become extremely popular in many regions of the world over time. While it remains traditionally French, Montreal’s Italians have adapted it as their own and given it an Italian twist. They have substituted classic mozzarella for the original Gruyère cheese in the recipe.
HOW TO Observe COQUILLES SAINT JACQUES DAY
Make your own Coquilles Saint Jacques
The French method of preparing scallops at home is not as intimidating as it sounds. The only ingredients needed are butter, cream, mushrooms, and cheese. The only remaining step is to bake the scallops. Then why are you still waiting? Get to the point!
Go out for Coquilles Saint Jacques
Not a fan of cooking but really craving this delectable dish? Simply visit a French restaurant and request one or two plates of Coquilles Saint Jacques. You can also capture an Instagram-worthy photo of your meal and share it with the hashtag #CoquillesSaintJacquesDay.
Learn to make Coquilles Saint Jacques
Register for scallop-making classes at nearby culinary schools or ongoing workshops. Once you’ve mastered how to prepare this delectable dish, you can prepare it for your friends and family to demonstrate your newly acquired cooking skills. You can even use this skill to woo a potential romantic partner.
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Five Interesting Facts Regarding Scallops
The edible flesh within the shell is white and firm, while the roe is soft and orange-red.
Japanese gastronomy
They are consumed as sashimi or sushi in Japan.
Food supply
In numerous nations around the world, scallops are regarded as a delectable dietary source.
There are numerous preparation methods.
There are numerous methods for preparing scallops, including sautéing, barbecuing, broiling, and poaching.
Two varieties
The bay scallop and the Atlantic sea scallop are edible scallops, with the former being smaller and less expensive than sea scallops, which are enormous and costly.
WHY WE ADORE COQUILLES SAINT JACQUES DAY
They are prepared French-style!
Everyone cooks scallops differently, and Coquilles Saint Jacques are scallops prepared in the French manner. Enjoy this day by consuming scallops baked in a scallop shell with a mixture of butter, cream, mushrooms, and cheese.
Scallops are nutritious.
Concerned with your health? Fret not! Omega-3 fatty acids are abundant in scallops, making them quite nutritious. The beneficial fats in these foods can help maintain a healthy cholesterol level. Additionally, they reduce the risk of cardiac disease. Magnesium is abundant in scallops, which contributes to cardiac health. Do not limit yourself; devour the entire plate of enticing scallops.
Consuming without remorse
Who doesn’t enjoy a food holiday where you can eat to your heart’s content? In particular when the food in issue is the delicious scallop. Therefore, do not feel guilty for commemorating Coquilles Saint Jacques Day.
NATIONAL COQUILLES SAINT JACQUES DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 16 | Tuesday |
| 2024 | May 16 | Thursday |
| 2025 | May 16 | Friday |
| 2026 | May 16 | Saturday |
| 2027 | May 16 | Sunday |
