Exploring France through food and wine

From the remarkable architecture found in Paris to the beaches of the Cote d’Azur, every inch of France has something that will amaze and astonish visitors. And in between these sights, you’ll find an array of outstanding food and wine too! Nearly every region of France boasts its own sustenance specialty, while the wide range of wines can vary greatly depending on where you happen to be. So, where can France’s wonderful food and wine be found? Here’s a brief insight into France’s food and wine by region. Let’s take a look at a list of French food and drinks to give you an idea of what to eat in France on your next trip :

What to eat in Alsace-Lorraine

The region located close to the French and German borders has had a lot of history, and influence of both countries can be seen in the architecture,culture and food! The city of Strasbourg is located in the Alsace region, and is just a bus ride away from various German cities, like Heidelberg,Karlsruhe,etc. The region is famous for the Tarte flambée or Flammkuchen, Spaetzle, Quiche Lorraine, Choucroute as well as a lot of beers and wine. I personally love all French desserts and just could not resist the fruit tarts in Strasbourg!Also, the Lorraine region is famous for the almond macaroons, known as ‘Macaroons de Nancy’, originating from the town of Nancy.The Parisian confectionery ‘Laduree’ created a richer version of the Macaroons after the success of the Nancy dessert.

 

Wine and cheese in Loire Valley

At one end of the gastronomy scale, the Loire Valley’s light but succulent zander fish or pike served with a semi-salted butter white wine sauce will please those with delicate taste buds. However, at the other end there are rich meat dishes which perfectly complement the region’s Mascadet wine.

The Loire Valley is also famous for the Crottin de Chavignol, a small goat’s cheese with a tender centre and ripened surface that pairs up superbly alongside Sancerre wine, a Sauvignon Blanc-based white.

 

Source:Tourism Sauldre

Seafood in Bordeaux

Although Bordeaux’s best-known contributions to the world of wine are Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this particular region also has several gastronomic traditions. In fact, fish and seafood are fundamental to its culinary heritage, particularly oysters and sole from Arachon. They also have beef and lamb specialities, such as  Bazadais rib of beef with Sauternes, or Pauillac lamb blanquette.

 

Mustard from Burgundy

Cuisine from Burgundy has red, white and rosé wine to thank for its own distinctive culinary character. But while onions, garlic and shallots add extra flavour to its delectable recipes, few dishes are complete without Dijon mustard, an iconic condiment of the region.

In terms of specialties, both meat eaters and vegetarians are well catered for. Options include Morvan-style “crapiaux” (thick crêpes with pork fatback), Burgundy-style snails, eggs Meurette, and Dijon gingerbread.

 

Champagne

It could be argued that Champagne’s association with opulence may have hindered the region’s gastronomic reputation rather than help it. But don’t let this put you off, as delights such as Reims style pâté, Sainte-Menehould pigs’ trotters and Champagne style stew are all bursting at the seams with flavour. Cheese connoisseurs and those with a sweet tooth should also make a beeline for this region to the East of the Ile-de-France.

 

Source:Flickr|dpotera

So, when it comes to food and wine in France, you really are spoilt for choice as to where you can go and what you can sample. You are also bound to find  warm baguettes and fresh pastries wherever you go.

 

What would you like to try out in France?Do let me know!

READ: 31 Best places to visit in France

ALSO: Best things to do in Provence

 

 

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