October 19th every year is a seafood lover’s dream because it is National Seafood Bisque Day. From the culinary masters of France comes this creamy, flavor-filled dish that is as warming as it is delicious. It is full of some of the best seafood, including lobster, crayfish, crab, and shrimp, among others. There are different variants, but the original is where the day gets its name, and rightly so.

What Is National Seafood Bisque Day?

Well, the word “bisque” comes from the French Bay of Biscay. Also, expect the shells to be puréed into the recipe in certain places. The recipe itself is puréed into a creamy texture and uses garlic, celery, heavy whipping cream, and herbs like parsley and dried thyme.

It originates from the 17th century, but interestingly, the dish was not exactly sought after back then. It was often given to servants rather than saved for the wealthy. Now, it is considered something to be enjoyed with bread. Perhaps the original recipe was a little simple because it has been adapted over time and has become quite a popular option on menus around the world.

The word “bisque” also refers to the phrase “bis cuites,” meaning “to cook twice.” This means the bisque is cooked twice. So expect to sauté anything in its shell before adding wine and herbs, then cooking it again in cream. Some spices can be added, but the rich flavor of the soup stands out on its own.

This is such an iconic dish that it deserves a dedicated day, and few seafood dishes can combine such flavors. Some variants use fewer seafood ingredients, such as lobster bisque and crab bisque, for example. Many people believe wines like Gewürztraminer add to the experience and pair well with the dish.

How To Observe National Seafood Bisque Day

As with any day dedicated to cuisine, the best way to get involved is by eating the dish. This can be at a restaurant that is famous for seafood bisque or by cooking your own at home. There are plenty of recipes online that make this easy.

To observe National Seafood Bisque Day where you are, why not add local herbs to see what this does to the taste? Of course, the best way to enjoy this dish is with family and friends.

So, invite them over, make enough for everyone, and share the images online. Use the hashtag #NationalSeafoodBisqueDay and see what the rest of the world is doing on this day. October 19th may never be the same if you start nailing the recipe every time.

Why not learn a bit more about the recipe, the Bay of Biscay, or just how other cultures make this dish a little different around the world? If you do invite people over, you could turn it into a French-themed meal.

This might be a preferable option since Seafood Bisque is often served as a starter. However you present it, be sure to stock up on thick chunks of bread, as that is how it is best enjoyed.