SaintJacques

SaintJacques is a term used in French for several meanings, most widely as the French name for scallops. The denomination comes from Saint James (SaintJacques in French), whose symbol, the scallop shell, has long been associated with pilgrims traveling the route to Santiago de Compostela. In French culinary usage, coquilles SaintJacques refers to a classic dish featuring scallops prepared in a creamy sauce, often with white wine, shallots, mushrooms, and herbs, and commonly served in a gratin or sautéed and finished with butter. The word "SaintJacques" can also refer to the mollusk itself, typically when used in markets or recipes.

Origin and symbolism: The scallop shell has been used as a pilgrim's badge since the Middle Ages, guiding travelers and indicating the route to the tomb of Saint James. The iconography appears in churches, on pilgrimage routes, and on culinary branding.

Geography and institutions: The name SaintJacques appears in toponyms and ecclesiastical dedications in French-speaking regions, including streets, parishes, and churches named in honor of Saint James. In modern usage, the term also appears in menus and product labels, reflecting its culinary heritage.