NATIONAL COQUILLES SAINT JACQUES DAY
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NATIONAL COQUILLES SAINT JACQUES DAY
On May 16th we celebrate National Coquilles Saint Jacques Day. This delicious food holiday is your reminder to try this tasty dish on a day you may not think about any other time of the year!
#CoquillesSaintJacquesDay
Also known as the Shell of St. James, Coquilles Saint Jacques is a classic French dish of scallops in a creamy wine sauce, covered with breadcrumbs, and cheese that is browned under a broiler. Cooks usually make this seafood scallop dish with a mixture of butter, cream, mushrooms, and their favorite cheese.
Coquilles Saint Jacques can be made with either bay or sea scallops. White wine, brandy, or cognac are used to cook the scallops. Most recipes call for Gruyere cheese but swiss may be substituted. Different recipes call for a variety of seasonings ranging from cayenne, tarragon, and paprika to curry and parsley. Bringing the entire dish together, it is then baked in the scallop shell. If you don't have access to scallop shells, individual ramekins work well, too. French cut green beans with almonds and fried onions complement the scallops nicely if it is being served as the main course.
The Scallop Legend
Many legends surround the scallop shell and the symbolism associated with St. James, one of Jesus' Twelve Apostles. One legend suggests the scallop shell replaced bowls for water and food for pilgrims during their journey to Santiago de Compostela. Another legend suggests that St. James used the scalloped shell to beg for food and water during his pilgrimage. In Christianity, the scallop shell represents the symbol of baptism.
HOW TO OBSERVE Coquilles Saint Jacques Day
On National Coquilles Saint Jacques Day, consider making this dish at home. If you aren't that adventurous, visit your seafood favorite restaurant and order it to celebrate. Any scallop lovers will want to celebrate this day to the fullest. We even have a recipe for you to try. Don't forget to share your photos or recipe on social media using the hashtag #CoquillesSaintJacquesDay.
NATIONAL COQUILLES SAINT JACQUES DAY HISTORY
National Day Calendar continues researching the origins of this seafood holiday. While we do, check out these other seafood celebrations: