National Pepper Pot Day

National Pepper Pot Day is a celebration of bold flavors! This holiday honors the hearty soup that first appeared in America during the Revolutionary War and became especially popular in the Southern United States. Have you tried it yet?

History

In the cold winter of 1777, the Continental Army was stationed in Pennsylvania. Severe frost and food shortages led to the loss of many soldiers, as local farmers preferred to sell their goods to the British, who paid in silver dollars rather than the new American banknotes.

One resourceful army cook decided to get creative. He gathered beef offal, leftover meat, peppercorns, and spices, and boiled everything in a large cauldron. The result was a spicy and satisfying soup—later nicknamed “the soup that won the war.”

Another theory claims that pepper pot soup originated in the Caribbean and was brought to America by enslaved people. However, most researchers doubt this story, as offal is rarely used in Caribbean cooking. Either way, National Pepper Pot Day is a great excuse to enjoy this unique dish!

Interesting Facts

Amazing Soup Moments:

• Pepper pot soup quickly became a symbol of Philadelphia after its creation.
• Today, it’s served mainly in restaurants that specialize in traditional dishes.
• Travelers in the region once noted that pepper pot soup was similar to scrapple.
• In the early 20th century, a canned version of the soup was sold for just 12 cents per can.

How to Take Part

Celebrate National Pepper Pot Day by finding a place that serves the dish, or try making it yourself! Bring friends along and embark on a culinary adventure. Look up recipes, create your own version at home, and ask your loved ones to rate it on a scale of one to ten.

When is National Pepper Pot Day in 2025?

National Pepper Pot Day is observed on December 29 each year.

Observations