Bastille Day, celebrated on July 14 each year, marks the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789, a key event that symbolizes the French Revolution. It's a national holiday in France, known locally as "La Fête Nationale" or "Le 14 Juillet." The day is commemorated with grand celebrations, including parades, fireworks displays, concerts, and communal meals known as "bal des pompiers" (firemen's ball), where communities gather to dance and enjoy festivities late into the night. In addition to its historical significance, Bastille Day also serves as a celebration of French culture, cuisine, and unity. To celebrate Bastille Day 2024, we bring you popular French cuisine to try. From coq au vin to salade nicoise, here are delicious recipes to prepare at home on the National Day of France.

Throughout France and in French communities worldwide, people come together to honour their national heritage with pride, reflecting on the values of liberty, equality, and fraternity that the Revolution espoused. It's a time for both reflection on France's past and appreciation for its rich cultural contributions to the world, making Bastille Day a vibrant and cherished holiday for the French and those who join in celebrating their culture globally. As you celebrate Bastille Day 2024, we at LatestLY bring you lip-smacking recipes from French cuisine that you can add to your menu for the day.

1. Coq au Vin

This hearty dish features chicken braised with red wine, mushrooms, onions, and bacon, seasoned with garlic and thyme. It's comforting and flavourful, and it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Watch Recipe Video of Coq au Vin:

2. Bouillabaisse

Bouillabaisse, originally from Provence, is a seafood stew made with various fish, shellfish, tomatoes, saffron, and herbs. It's typically served with rouille (a garlic saffron mayonnaise) and crusty bread, making it a luxurious and satisfying dish.

Watch Recipe Video of Bouillabaisse:

3. Ratatouille

A traditional Provençal vegetable stew, ratatouille features tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, onions, and garlic cooked slowly to meld the flavours together. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a side, over pasta, or with crusty bread.

Watch Recipe Video of Ratatouille:

4. Salade Niçoise

This refreshing salad originated in Nice and typically includes tuna, hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, green beans, olives, and anchovies, all arranged on a bed of lettuce and drizzled with a vinaigrette dressing. It's colourful, flavourful, and perfect for a summer celebration.

Watch Recipe Video of Salade Niçoise:

5. Crème Brûlée

A classic French dessert, crème brûlée consists of rich custard topped with a layer of caramelized sugar. It's elegant yet simple, with a creamy texture and a satisfying contrast between the smooth custard and crunchy caramel topping.

Watch Recipe Video of Crème Brûlée:

These dishes showcase the diversity and richness of French cuisine, each offering a taste of France's culinary heritage and making them ideal choices to enjoy on Bastille Day or any festive occasion. Wishing everyone a Happy Bastille Day 2024!

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 13, 2024 10:24 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).