Expert: Joseph Logue - 12/7/2004

Question
Do you know which English monarch decreed that a goose should be eaten on Christmas Day please?

Answer
Hello Kim,

I did a little searching, as this is a bit outside my area of expertise.  The nearest I came was that Queen Elizabeth I ordered that a goose be prepared for Michaelmas Day (September 29).  She was dining on goose on that day when news came of the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588.  So in this instance, a goose is prepared in memorization of that most historic day.

Further research showed that a goose is best prepared when it is neither too young or too old.  Spring hatchlings reach this point when they are around 6 months old (September, roughly) and remain perfect for roasting for a few months longer -- in other words, just into the new year.  So a goose is a good match for holiday meals, as it is at its peak of freshness and flavor.  Having the royal stamp did not hurt any, I am sure.  One does not go against the orders of the Queen.

The Reference Librarian at your local library can help with these and many other questions.  Ask for a book about holidays, customs, etc.

Thanks for visiting AllExperts.

Sincerely,

Joseph Logue