Julia Child's Favorite Childhood Snack with a Martini

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Julia Child, the legendary figure in French cuisine, was known for her intricate and detailed recipes that often required hours of preparation. However, this didn't mean she shunned simplicity. In fact, she had a deep appreciation for straightforward dishes. One of her favorites was the classic French soup, vichyssoise, which she adored. Additionally, she had a soft spot for fast food chains like In-N-Out, proving that even the most refined chefs can enjoy convenience.

Goldfish crackers were one of her favorite snacks, and she wasn’t afraid to admit it. Despite her reputation as an elegant and sophisticated cook, Julia would often serve these simple crackers to her guests. For her, hosting a Thanksgiving dinner meant more than just presenting a beautifully prepared meal—it also involved offering a bowl of these iconic childhood snacks as an appetizer.

According to Mary Beth Albright of The Washington Post's "Voraciously," Julia had a unique way of starting off her evenings. She would serve Goldfish Cheddar Crackers alongside an upside-down martini, a drink that featured more vermouth than gin. This combination became a staple at her regular gatherings and dinner parties. Even at a Harvard symposium inspired by the late cookbook author in 2012, Goldfish crackers were served to guests, highlighting how much Julia loved this snack.

Why did Julia’s choice of serving Goldfish crackers work so well for gatherings?

Julia was loyal to her favorite brands, from her trusted Thermador oven to the mayonnaise brand she swore by. These staples were not only part of her personal kitchen but also appeared on her television shows. It makes sense, then, that she didn’t hesitate to enjoy her favorite snack, even during more formal occasions. The convenience of having Pepperidge Farm’s ready-made crackers on hand saved her time while preparing large feasts. These crackers might have also brought back nostalgic memories for guests who grew up eating them.

It’s worth noting that Goldfish crackers started as a bar food before becoming a beloved childhood staple. This history could explain why the cheese and cracker combination pairs so well with cocktail drinks. By serving them alongside her favorite simple cocktail, the upside-down martini, Julia provided her guests with a satisfying mix of salt and crunch that didn’t spoil their appetites. The playful and easy-to-grab shape of the crackers likely delighted visitors and sparked conversations.

By the time the turkey and other meticulously prepared dishes arrived at the table, her guests were already comfortable and primed for the meal, yet still hungry enough to enjoy everything Julia had lovingly created for the occasion.

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