National Cassoulet Day
National Cassoulet Day celebrates cassoulet, a French slow-cooked casserole made with savory meat, tender beans, and fragrant herbs. This hearty dish originated in southwest France as a simple farmhouse meal and is named for the cooking pot associated with it, the cassole d’Issel. Over time, cassoulet developed into a rich and varied dish with regional versions associated with Castelnaudary, Carcassonne, and Toulouse.
Although cassoulet has roots in French cuisine, National Cassoulet Day was founded in New York City by Benoit Bistro in 2014. The January observance arrives during winter, making it a fitting occasion to enjoy this warm, substantial meal. According to a 2015 announcement from D’Artagnan, Chef Philippe Bertineau and the Benoit team helped establish the day.
How to Observe National Cassoulet Day
Celebrate by enjoying a bowl of cassoulet at home or seeking it out at a French restaurant. You can also try preparing your own version with beans, meat, and herbs, or learn about the differences among the Castelnaudary, Carcassonne, and Toulouse styles. Since traditional cassoulet can take days to prepare, make it a leisurely winter cooking project—or simply savor a ready-made serving.


