National Oysters Rockefeller Day

Close up of a plate of Oysters Rockefeller, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon slices, elegant dining table setting, classic fine dining atmosphere.. — National oysters rockefeller day illustration

Welcome to the fascinating world of National Oysters Rockefeller Day! Get ready to shuck some knowledge and dive into the depths of this delectable celebration.

When is Oysters Rockefeller Day?

It's national oysters rockefeller day on the 10th January.

The Oyster that Rocked the World

Every year on January 10th, seafood enthusiasts gather to honor that oh-so-succulent bivalve known as oysters Rockefeller. These mouthwatering mollusks have a rich and flavorful history that goes back centuries.

Legend has it that the dish was created in New Orleans by Jules Alciatore, the son of Antoine Alciatore, the founder of the famous Antoine's Restaurant. The young Jules wanted to come up with a luxurious oyster dish to satisfy the palates of his wealthiest patrons. And so, in 1899, he whipped up a recipe that would forever change the oyster game.

Using a variety of ingredients including butter, breadcrumbs, herbs, and a touch of absinthe, Jules crafted a tantalizing topping for the oysters, then baked them to perfection. The resulting dish was so decadent that it was named after the legendary Rockefeller family known for their wealth and extravagance.

From Bashful Bivalves to Social Media Stars

Since its creation, oysters Rockefeller has become a beloved seafood delicacy enjoyed by food aficionados worldwide. Not only do they delight our taste buds, but these little treasures also have an amusing presence online.

A quick search on social media platforms will reveal countless Instagram posts featuring perfectly plated oysters Rockefeller. Whether it's a fancy restaurant offering this delectable dish or an adventurous home cook attempting their own version, people love showcasing their culinary skills and drool-worthy photos. National Oysters Rockefeller Day has truly made these bivalves Instagram superstars!

History behind the term 'Oysters Rockefeller'

1889

Creation of Oysters Rockefeller

Oysters Rockefeller is a dish that was created in 1889 by Jules Alciatore, the son of Antoine Alciatore, the founder of Antoine's Restaurant in New Orleans, Louisiana. Jules Alciatore wanted to come up with a flavorful and rich dish to cater to the tastes of the late 19th-century upper class. He developed the recipe as a twist on the classic dish Oysters Bienville, named after Jean Baptiste Bénard de la Harpe, a French explorer who founded Biloxi, Mississippi.

1899

Named after John D. Rockefeller

The dish was named 'Oysters Rockefeller' by Jules Alciatore as a tribute to one of the wealthiest men of the time, John D. Rockefeller. Rockefeller was known for his enormous wealth and association with the Rockefeller family, who were prominent in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. By naming the dish after Rockefeller, Alciatore hoped to attract the attention of the upper-class clientele who frequented Antoine's Restaurant.

1900s

Recipe kept a closely guarded secret

The recipe for Oysters Rockefeller has remained a closely guarded secret for over a century. Only a select few individuals have been entrusted with the full recipe, which includes a combination of ingredients such as butter, parsley, spinach, breadcrumbs, and various herbs and spices. The original recipe has been handed down through generations within the Alciatore family, maintaining its exclusivity and mystique.

20th century

Popularity and variations

Oysters Rockefeller gained immense popularity throughout the 20th century and became a staple of New Orleans cuisine. Chefs and cooks around the world sought to recreate the dish, resulting in various interpretations and adaptations. Some variations include the addition of bacon, cheese, or different herbs and spices to add their own unique twist.

Present day

Oysters Rockefeller as a culinary icon

Oysters Rockefeller has endured as a culinary icon, representing the rich and flavorful history of New Orleans cuisine. The dish is still available at Antoine's Restaurant, where it was first created, and at numerous other seafood establishments across the United States. It continues to be celebrated for its distinctive blend of flavors and its association with luxury dining experiences.

Did you know?

Did you know that oysters have been consumed by humans for thousands of years? Archaeologists have found oyster shells at ancient sites dating back to prehistoric times. Talk about an enduring culinary tradition!