“Dis-moi ce que tu manges, je te dirai qui tu es.” (Tell me what you eat, and I’ll tell you what you are) Some food types are considered romantic while others are daring, bold, or exciting. For example, a multi- layered parfait may be appropriate for Valentine's Day celebrations but a Cajun hotdog on a bagel bun might be better suited for 4th of July parties. Food has the capacity to raise our spirits on any occasion. Let's take a look at 10 French food delicacies well-known or more obscure, that will undoubtedly bring you joy!
French Baguette
No trip to France or Quebec could ever be considered complete without trying the classic French baguette. Its lack of preservatives or additives is one of the reasons why it's considered the best bread in the world, unlike the store bought bread frequently found in the United States or Canada. Due to this, it is meant to be consumed the same day it is baked. There are strict laws in France governing the ingredients in a baguette, to preserve this historic quality. Amongst there is the fact that baguettes must be made in the premises they are made in, and can only use four ingredients: wheat flour, water, salt and yeast. In 2018 the baguette was included in a Craftsmanship and Culture Declaration and was added to the French Ministry of Culture's National inventory of intangible cultural heritage. Even further, in 2022, UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage Committee revealed the baguette had been classified as part of our World Heritage! This highlights how important the baguette is to French culture and life, as well as a jewel of global culinary tradition and craft!
Boeuf Bourguignon
Prepared in the style of the French region of Bourgogne, this French beef stew is typically braised with red wine, usually a Burgundy. As with other stews, this can be prepared with carrots, onions, beef stock, garlic, and if wished, a bouquet garni. It is usually garnished with mushrooms, pearl onions, and bacon. In the United States and other anglophone countries, it might be more well-known as Beef Burgundy. This classic recipe is best prepared with time, as many recommend starting two nights before in order to marinate the beef overnight, and subsequently leave the final product to stew the next night for maximum flavor. This dish is perfect for a large crowd, as most recipes are made to serve around 6 to 8 people at least, making it a staple of French brasseries! For the ultimate delectable experience, enjoy a nice glass of wine as you prepare this charming meal.
Brioche
This light sweet yeast bread is typically fashioned as a small round roll. The enriched dough creates an irresistible sweet taste, while conserving an unbelievably soft texture. Enjoyed around the world, brioche is considered an elevated substitute for other more traditional breads. Its unique traits expand its versatility, as it can be used as a dessert bread, or as a normal everyday bread used for sandwiches and other daily meals.
French Onion Soup
It's no secret that French onion soup gained significant popularity in the United States during the 1960s. Some believe this was driven by the Kennedy family during their time in the White House, and the incredibly popular chef Julia Child. French onion soup is usually made with a variation of sweet onions, red onions, shallots, leaks, and white onions. When cooked slowly, the sugars of the ingredients breakdown with the heat and eventually begin to caramelize. This process produces a rich brown flavor that adds tremendous depth to the taste of the soup. It is also common to add a Brandy or Sherry-spiked broth, just before serving, for an elevated effect. Grated cheese can be sprinkled on top along with several croutons to enhance the presentation. Learn more about the history and complexity of the traditional onion soup in our article!
Escargot de Bourgogne
Like the iconic stew mentioned above, the escargot de bourgogne can be traced back to the Burgundy region of France. Along with the well-known frog legs, snails are very typical French food. In fact, the Burgundy region is known to have the best quality snails in all of France. Their preparation can be quite complex. Typically, snails are fed cleansing herbs before their preparation, and are always thoroughly washed prior to being boiled. The entire process of preparation can take up to three whole days, which adds to the elevated value of the dish. When fully cleansed and cooked, the snails are then placed back in the shells and served drenched in butter, garlic, and parsley for an exquisite taste. From a nutritional point of view, escargots are treasured for their low fat and high protein content. Premium escargots are usually sourced from the Burgundy region itself, followed by European gardens and Turkey.
Pieds de Porc
This peculiar dish highlights the originality and creativity of French cuisine. Better known as “pigs feet,” this French dish can also be found in North America. It is served in two major variations: pieds de porc panes are grilled for a delicious crispy texture, while pieds de porc cochon farcis are stuffed, in order to achieve a full warm flavor. A mixture of spices including tarragon, chives, and parsley are commonly added to a marinade prior to cooking, to elevate the range of flavors. The stuffing, in particular, is often composed of finely cut onions, tomatoes, and potatoes.
Pain au Chocolat
No French delicacy list would be complete without a treat for the kids, and what better than a pastry filled with rich chocolate? The beloved pain au chocolat, known as chocolatine in the South of France and in Canada, is a favorite. Its small size fits perfectly in children's hands, making it a delightful snack. This cuboid-shaped pastry, crafted from yeast-leavened laminated dough, boasts a sweet taste and a puffy, flaky texture. The golden exterior encases layers of buttery dough and delicious chocolate, creating an irresistible treat for all ages.
Caramel au Beurre Salé
Originally from Brittany, France, this delightful candy is made with salted butter and gained popularity in the 1940s in Morbihan. It later became well-known in Paris. Sweet and salty combinations are popular in France, with caramel enjoyed solo or in desserts. Only high-quality butter and cream are used, and the best French caramel is made by carefully heating and cooling to specific temperatures for the perfect taste and texture. This meticulous process ensures the desired consistency and flavor, making it a beloved treat.
Cassoulet
This prime comfort food typically consists of white beans added to slow-cooked meat, often duck or pork, along with various sausages or goose. The dish's name comes from the pot (cassole) used to cook it. During winter, this hearty and satisfying meal is sure to bring a smile to your face. Traditionally prepared with a variety of herbs and spices, this dish boasts rich and savory flavors. It's often served with crusty bread and a robust red wine, making it a perfect centerpiece for a cozy, comforting meal shared with loved ones. Some chefs even add a layer of breadcrumbs on top for an extra crunchy texture, further enhancing the dish’s appeal. The slow cooking process melds all the ingredients together, creating a harmonious and deeply satisfying flavor profile that exemplifies comfort food at its finest.
Chocolate Souffle
This dish is the perfect ending to a perfect meal. You’re sure to fall in love with this delectable dessert, widely regarded as one of France’s best. Made with dark chocolate, this well-known delicacy is loved worldwide for its intense flavor. It boasts a custard-like texture and is light on the palate. Prepared with unsweetened chocolate, it allows the chef to precisely adjust the sweetness. Beyond its exquisite taste, this dessert often includes hints of vanilla or a touch of sea salt to enhance its profile. Typically presented elegantly with a sprig of mint or a dusting of powdered sugar, it is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Sharing this dessert brings joy and satisfaction, making it a delightful conclusion to any meal. This treat epitomizes French culinary artistry, creating memorable experiences with each bite. Whether enjoyed in a quaint café or a fine dining restaurant, it consistently delivers a perfect end to any dining occasion
Each of these French delicacies stimulates the palate in a unique way, bringing a sure smile to those enjoying them. A lot of time, effort, and preparation go into making each dish, highlighting the French dedication to the culinary craft and the pleasure of food. Every bite tells a story of passion and dedication, making the dining experience truly special and memorable.
