France is world-famous for its fine cuisine. For French cooks, making a meal is more than simply a practical exercise in human survival — it’s an art. They believe good food should nourish the soul as well as the body.
Many people dream of traveling to Paris or the French countryside to sample sumptuous food. If you’re planning a trip to France in the near future, make note of these delectable dishes you’ll want to try.
1. Boeuf Bourguignon
Also known as Beef Burgundy, this delicious beef stew is one of France’s most popular meals. The beef is slow-cooked in red wine – usually, a LOT of red wine — along with mushrooms, carrots, garlic, bacon, onions, and (in some cases) potatoes. Plenty of recipe variations exist, and different wines subtly change the flavor.
As its name suggests, this dish is often claimed to have originated in the Burgundy region in France, though its exact origin is unclear. Nevertheless, if you’re looking for a hearty meal while in France, you can’t go wrong with a beautiful bowl of Boeuf Bourguignon!
2. Steak-Frites
This is another common dish you’ll find at French restaurants, and it’s a perfect choice if someone in your group doesn’t have an adventurous palate. It’s a variation on steak and french fries — something many Americans could definitely get behind!
A top-notch French chef will turn this seemingly simple dish into something magical by adding different sauces and seasonings, then searing the steak to juicy perfection. Don’t miss it!
3. Ratatouille
Have a vegetarian in your pilgrimage party? They’ll want to try a delicious (and healthy) ratatouille. This all-veggie stew – often featuring tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, garlic, and onion – is slow-cooked in olive oil to make everything juicy and soft.
4. Quiche Lorraine
Few things are more satisfying than a tasty breakfast, and few French breakfast dishes can beat Quiche Lorraine. Named after the beautiful Lorraine region in France, this dish is separated from other quiches by following a very specific recipe, including heavy cream, bacon, eggs, and fine French cheese.
5. Cheese
Okay, this entry may not be a full meal (though some of us can eat a LOT of cheese), but French cheese simply can’t be beaten. At restaurants and cheese shops across France, you’ll find a variety of soft bries, the bold Roquefort, Époisses de Bourgogne, and many other varieties that give Wisconsin dairy a run for its money.
Of course, you can pair many of these meals with France’s immense selection of wine.
Which of these dishes sounds most appealing to you? Let us know in the comments below, or share another one of your favorite French dishes!
Excited to try one of these dishes in France? Join us for one of our upcoming pilgrimages!
