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Mourning for Christine Lincou: The grande dame of cassoulet has passed away
Christine Lincou, the second Grand Maître of the Confrérie du cassoulet, dies at the age of 66, leaving behind a great legacy.
Mourning for Christine Lincou: The grande dame of cassoulet has passed away
On November 10, 2025, the sad news came: Christine Lincou, the model figure of the Confrérie du Cassoulet and Grand Maître, died at the age of 66. She has been active in the Confrérie for over 25 years and in 2022 became the second woman in its 51-year history to be appointed Grand Maître, a position she filled with dedication and passion. Lincou entered the Confrérie in 2000 and quickly rose from dignitar to knight. She leaves her footsteps in the organization dedicated to preserving the traditional cassoulet of Castelnaudary.
What made Christine Lincou so special? Michel Koehl, her successor, praised her empathy, kindness and the valuable advice she provided both in club life and outside of it. In Castelnaudary, she wasn't just known for her culinary endeavors - as a driving instructor, she passed on her knowledge to numerous young drivers for over 38 years.
A legacy of cassoulet
The cassoulet that she so passionately defended has its origins in the southwestern region of France and is traditionally made with beans and various meats. Legend has it that it was created during the Hundred Years' War when the people of Castelnaudary cooked with what they had available. Although the exact origins are disputed, the dish is now a symbol of community and cohesion.
The Académie Universelle du Cassoulet, founded in 1998, promotes the “real” cassoulet and has 70 members. As history shows, cassoulet was prepared by housewives in the 17th century and named after the pot used, the cassole. A fulfilling dish, also considered a “plat de partage” – a dish that is brought together.
A look into the future
Despite her absence, Christine Lincou's legacy remains alive at the Confrérie. Planned events such as participation in the truffle market or the festivities during the Fête du Cassoulet will continue to be carried out in accordance with their vision. There were some challenges in 2021 due to the pandemic, but the Confrérie continued to attract attention through mini-chapters and media presence on television broadcasts.
The Confrérie du Cassoulet is active on social media and attracts a significant number of visitors to its website. The last visit, which took place from January 1st to 9th, 2023, already recorded 2,480 visits. It is clear that the passion for cassoulet and Lincou's heritage will continue for years to come.
Sincere condolences are expressed to the family, including her husband Jean-Claude, her son Laurent and her daughter-in-law Alison, as well as her two grandchildren Léo and Lucas, at this difficult time. Christine Lincou leaves a great void and will be greatly appreciated by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
Further information about Christine Lincou and the Confrérie du Cassoulet can be found in the articles by L'Indépendant, La Dépêche and the history of cassoulet The Good Life France.