Embark on a culinary journey into the past and discover the delicacies that delighted the first class passengers on the last night aboard the Titanic. You'll be surprised by how much these dishes cost today!
A legend that still holds a fascination
The Titanic, the most famous ship of all time, met a tragic end on the night of April 14, 1912. Thanks to directors like James Cameron, the Titanic story has been enriched with a touch of universal love that transcends social classes. But even without adding fiction, the story of the Titanic is captivating enough.
Everyone knows the details of the sinking (about 1,500 of the 2,240 people on board perished) and its aftermath (only 20 lifeboats out of the planned 64 were present, 16 of which managed to save passengers). Fortunately, safety standards have evolved considerably since then.
The menu of the last night: a rediscovered treasure
While much is known about the Titanic, such as the brave musicians who continued to play or the captain who stayed on board, one piece of information has long remained unknown: the menu of the last night. A few years ago, the menu for the lavish first-class dinner was sold to a private collector. Designed by the famous chef of the time, Auguste Escoffier, this menu testifies to the luxury enjoyed by the wealthy passengers.
A feast for first class passengers
The Titanic had three kitchens and an incredible supply of provisions. Chef Pierre Rousseau, who did not survive the sinking, was assisted by several cooks to serve meals to the passengers. The first class passengers had paid nearly 10,000 euros for their trip and were able to enjoy a menu that may seem excessive to us today.
Here are the delicacies that delighted these passengers on their last night on board:
1. Gourmet appetizers
Various canapés, including canapés à l'amiral (with butter and shrimps)
Oysters au gratin with champagne
2. Delicate soups
Olga Consommé (with port and scallops)
Barley Cream
3. Refined fish
Poached salmon in a court-bouillon, mousseline sauce and cucumbers
4. Dishes of resistance
Lili beef fillets (with foie gras, artichokes and truffles)
Sauteed Chicken Lyonnaise (with tomatoes and mushrooms)
Stuffed Zucchini
5. Tasty meats
Leg of Lamb with Mint Sauce
Roast Duck with Apple Sauce
Roasted Beef Tenderloin with Chateau Potatoes (carved and browned in butter)
Peas, Creamed Carrots, Boiled Rice, Boiled New Potatoes, Parmentier Potatoes (sautéed in butter with fresh parsley)
6. Fruity refreshment
Roman Punch (orange, lemon, rum and meringue sorbet)
7. Delicate Poultry
Roasted pigeon with watercress
8. Elegant Vegetables
Cold Asparagus with Vinaigrette
9. Refined pleasures
Pâté of foie gras
Celery
10. Irresistible Desserts
Waldorf Pie (chocolate and hazelnut ice cream cake)
Peaches in Chartreuse Jelly
Chocolate and Vanilla Eclairs
French Ice Cream
With a menu like this, there is no doubt that the Titanic's first class passengers enjoyed a feast worthy of their status. If one were to estimate the cost of these dishes today, one could expect a bill as lavish as the menu itself!
I'm Marie, author at 180back.com. I'm passionate about fashion, especially watches and sneakers, and love to share my findings and insights on the latest trends and innovations in these areas.
Summary
- A legend that still holds a fascination
- The menu of the last night: a rediscovered treasure
- A feast for first class passengers
- 1. Gourmet appetizers
- 2. Delicate soups
- 3. Refined fish
- 4. Dishes of resistance
- 5. Tasty meats
- 6. Fruity refreshment
- 7. Delicate Poultry
- 8. Elegant Vegetables
- 9. Refined pleasures
- 10. Irresistible Desserts
