The Timeless Charm of the Cordon Bleu
Cordon bleu, a delicious dish rich in history and flavor, continues to be a popular choice on menus around the world. But what are the origins of this beloved dish? Steeped in a web of legends and fascinating stories, we discover how a simple breaded cutlet stuffed with cheese and ham conquered international palates and what lies behind its enigmatic name.
The Etymology of “Cordon Bleu”
The term “cordon bleu” in French literally means “blue cordon.” This expression, seemingly disconnected from the dish itself, actually hides a rich historical background. The name may derive from an association with the Order of the Holy Spirit, founded in 1578 by King Henry III of France, known for its distinctive blue ribbon. One theory suggests that the dish may have been created by a member of this order, while another has it that the name comes from the transatlantic ship Bremen, which was given the title “Blue Ribbon” for its speed and for which a special dish was created to celebrate the event.
Two Stories, One Tradition
No matter which version you prefer, both stories add a unique charm to cordon bleu. According to legend associated with the Order of the Holy Spirit, Duke Gonzaga of Nevers, an avid frequenter of culinary markets and known for his blue cordon bleu, is said to have inspired the name of the dish. This anecdote tells how his culinary creativity led to the birth of the dish during one of his stays at court, earning him the nickname “Monsieur Cordon Bleu.”
On the other hand, maritime history takes us aboard the Bremen, where to celebrate the liner’s speed record, the ship’s chef invented a new recipe, a cheese-stuffed pork cutlet, which was named in honor of the ship.
The Cordon Bleu Today
In addition to its fascinating origins, cordon bleu continues to be one of the most beloved and versatile dishes. It has evolved into many variations, with different meats and fillings, but the classic cordon bleu remains a favorite for its crisp exterior and soft, stringy heart.
Come Discover Our Handmade Giant Cordon Bleu
At our restaurant, we have taken this classic recipe and elevated it to new heights with our exclusive handmade giant cordon bleu. Each piece is prepared with care and dedication, ensuring that every bite is a delicious immersion in culinary tradition. We look forward to sharing with you the rich taste and fascinating history of this legendary dish.
Learn more about our offerings and reserve a table to savor a piece of culinary history by visiting our Ristorante del Ponte website.
