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Have you ever wondered who invented the eggs Benedict, or why a particular kebab is called tundey kebab? Each dish served on your plate has its own story that goes beyond the ingredients used and the recipe by which the food is prepared. The culinary world is filled with delicious treats that are named after real people.
From historical figures like Louis de Bechamel on whom Bechamel sauce is named, to chefs like Caesar Cardini who created Caesar salad, their identity has become synonymous with some of our favorite culinary delights. But how many dishes do you know that have been named after inspiring women who fascinated the world with their hard work and achievements?
Margherita Pizza
This world-famous pizza loaded with fresh mozzarella, tomato sauce and basil, is inspired by Queen Margherita of Italy. In the year 1889, the queen visited Naples and was presented with a pizza by baker Raffaele Esposito. It is said that the queen loved this simple and flavourful pizza, which was later named in her honour, and became a national staple.
Pavlova
This light and airy meringue-based dessert is very popular in Australia and New Zealand. Made with egg white and caster sugar, it is topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits like strawberries and kiwi fruit. While the exact origin remains a debate between Australia and New Zealand, this delicious dessert is named after the iconic Russian ballerina, Anna Pavlova, and is said to have been inspired by her tutu outfit.
Marie Biscuit
Marie biscuit needs no introduction to India. Widely relished as a tea-time snack, it is made with whole wheat flour and is popularised as a low-calorie snack. This crunchy biscuit was named after the Grand Dutchess of Russia, Maria Alexandrovna. It was created by a London bakery called Peek Freans to serve at the grand wedding of the Dutchess with Alfred, Duke of Edinburg.
Tarte Tatin
This upside-down apple tart, a delightful amalgamation of caramelised apples and flaky pastry, is named after the Tatin sisters, Stephanie and Caroline. As per the legend, these sisters, who ran a hotel in France, accidentally left apples caramelising in a pan and simply covered them with dough, creating this iconic dessert. Invented in the early 1900s, the main ingredients of this French pastry are apple wedges, white sugar, butter, vanilla extract and pie crust.
Melba Toast
Thin and crisp Melba toast is often served with soup or topped with various ingredients such as melted cheese. Created by French chef Auguste Escoffier, it is named after Dame Nellie Melba, a legendary Australian opera singer. The delicate toast is said to have been invented at London's Savoy Hotel in the late 19th century.
Lady Kenny
This list also includes an Indian dish called Lady Kenny or ledikeni. Widely popular in West Bengal, it is basically lightly fried sweet fritter that is dipped in sugar syrup. The main ingredients of this mithai include milk, semolina, ghee, cardamom powder and raisins. Ledikeni was created in the middle of the 19th century in Kolkata to honour Charlotte Canning, a British artist and Vicereine of India during the period of British rule in the country.
