National Cordon Bleu Day 2024 (US): Annually observed on April 4, National Cordon Bleu Day honors the creator of the dish that has become an instant classic in restaurants around the world: Cordon Bleu. This dish consists primarily of pork, veal, or poultry breast that has been stuffed with ham and any type of cheese (Swiss, Emmental, or Gruyere), breadcrumb-coated, and baked or fried until crisp-tender. Constantly accompanied by a Dijon cream condiment. It is not surprising that Americans are particularly enamored with this dish, as it resembles consuming a gigantic buttery nugget submerged in a creamy sauce; it is, without a doubt, a delectable entree.
National Cordon Bleu Day History
The precise whereabouts of this day are unknown; however, it is believed that the dish Cordon Bleu originated in Switzerland, where it was more colloquially known as “schnitzel.” When the “Order of the Knights of the Holy Spirit” was active in France in 1578, its members would traditionally affix talismans to blue ribbons for hanging. As a consequence, they acquired the poetic designation ‘Les Cordon Bleus’ (literally, ‘the blue ribbons’), and this designation was elevated to knightly status during the reign of King Henry III of France.
Hence, it continues to be emblematic of distinction, given that blue ribbons were initially awarded to chefs and their dishes that met the most stringent criteria. Le Cordon Bleu, a renowned French culinary arts institution, did not, notwithstanding the day’s moniker, originate from the establishment of National Cordon Bleu Day. Additionally, Veal Kiev, which was introduced in Paris during the late 1840s, is the progenitor of this cuisine. Subsequently, in Moscow, chicken was substituted for veal, and the recipe was initially published in 1955.
The dish arrived in the United States during the 1960s, and its initial mention in print appeared in “The New York Times” in 1967. However, considering this relatively mundane historical account, we are inclined towards the anecdote (albeit with doubtful veracity) in which a Swiss chef encountered an inadequate supply of meat for two sizable clientele gathering at her eatery. Subsequently, she conceived the blue ribbon-winning plan of butterflying the meat filets, cramming them with ham and cheese, and frying them. She declined, but suggested that the name Cordon Bleu would be more appropriate for the cuisine, which led to its conception.
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FAQs for National Cordon Bleu Day
How does Chicken Kiev differ in flavor from Cordon Bleu?
The primary distinction between the two is that Cordon Bleu is packed with ham and cheese, while Chicken Kiev is stuffed with cold butter.
What gives it its name, Cordon Bleu?
“Blue ribbon” is the literal translation of the term “Cordon Bleu,” hence the name. During the 1500s, the blue ribbon was exclusively bestowed upon nobles of the utmost prestige at the court of King Henry III in France. Therefore, the blue ribbon has come to represent the utmost quality and is presented to chefs and their creations that exceed anticipations, such as the Cordon Bleu.
In particular, what is Cordon Bleu?
The meat is pounded and then encased in prosciutto and cheese to form a schnitzel. Following a breadcrumb coating, this is broiled or deep-fried. French fries accompanied by condiments and rice are alternative common accompaniments.
Activities on National Cordon Bleu Day
Embrace a genuine Cordon Bleu.
If you are unfamiliar with the dish, we recommend that you dine at an authentic French restaurant. You can even organize a family outing or a romantic evening with your significant other. Regardless of your selection, be certain to partake in its indulgence.
Construct a personal “blue ribbon” dish.
Do you possess a signature dish that you have refined and mastered over time? Make every effort to ensure that it merits a blue ribbon; family and friends will be evaluating it at the table. Or, attempt to prepare your own Cordon Bleu; there are numerous variations to choose from.
Examine the culinary history of France
Numerous delectable dishes with widespread appeal have their origins in France. This day may provide an ideal occasion to delve into the historical background of these dishes and equip yourself with intriguing anecdotes and tales of their origin that are certain to captivate guests at your upcoming dinner party.
NATIONAL CORDON BLEU DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | April 4 | Thursday |
| 2025 | April 4 | Friday |
| 2026 | April 4 | Saturday |
| 2027 | April 4 | Sunday |
| 2028 | April 4 | Tuesday |
