As part of its commemoration of Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee, the royal family’s Twitter account posted a thread recounting the Silver Jubilee of the queen’s father, King George V, in 1935. Like his daughter’s celebration, the king’s 25 years of service was marked by the centuries-old Trooping the Colour military parade, a service of thanksgiving at St. Paul’s Cathedral, and a grand state dinner.
The palace posted a photo of King George’s dinner menu, written in French (as one does). The multi-course menu included salmon medallions, duck breast filet, lamb chops with Normandy peas, roast chicken and asparagus, rounded out with a frozen dessert soufflé and quiche. Starting it all off was tortue claire — a clear turtle soup — a delicacy 80 years ago that doesn’t quite appeal to the modern palate. “It contains turtle meat? I hope it is no longer served,” tweeted one disgusted diner. Another asked, “Uhh … can I just have chips?” But another follower pointed out that turtle soup is still served in some restaurants in New Orleans.
Though the queen’s guests will no doubt eat royally at her Jubilee state dinner, the amphibious soup won’t be on the menu, assures Woman & Home. Many types of turtles are considered endangered and are illegal to eat. Plus, Prince Charles is passionate about environmental causes, so the future king of England would be unlikely to approve of a meal featuring a threatened species. Perhaps a nice tomato bisque instead?
