For anyone who might not be immediately familiar with Vichyssoise, allow us to tell you exactly what it is. Vichyssoise is a thick soup made from cream, chicken stock, leeks, potatoes, and onions that is boiled and then traditionally served cold.

It is a soup that originated in France but is now enjoyed by people all over the world. It is also one of the few soups that are so good it has managed to earn its own holiday. The holiday that celebrates this soup is National Vichyssoise Day, observed every year on November 18th.

The History of Vichyssoise

Okay, we have to admit that we don’t know who created this holiday or when it was created. That has led us to instead research the history of Vichyssoise and see where this cold soup came from.

During our research, we learned that this soup was invented by French chef Louis Diat while he was working at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in New York City in 1917. He, in turn, based the recipe on one that his mother and grandmother used to make for him and his brother during the summer months.

Quick Facts About Vichyssoise

Okay, let’s talk about some of the things that we learned during our research for this holiday.

• French Chef Jules Gouffé also published a soup recipe that was made with chicken stock, cream, leeks, and potatoes in 1869. However, that soup was served hot, not cold.
• There are Vichyssoise variations that include cucumber-chive or watercress and potatoes.

Observing National Vichyssoise Day

Serve up a nice bowl of Vichyssoise if you want to observe this holiday. That’s all you have to do. And while you’re celebrating this holiday, be sure to use the hashtag #NationalVichyssoiseDay on your social media accounts with a picture of the soup you made. Just don’t forget to serve some bread with your soup.