Traditional Food to Try in France

Discover the very best traditional food to try in France with tabl.com, where we have food tours in Paris. As well as wine tours in Provence. All of which designed explore and uncover the origins of some long-standing French favourites.

Food tourism is big business in France, especially with the likes of food and drink experiences in Paris or food and wine tasting in Bordeaux. However, wherever you decide to visit, each region has it’s own delicacies and cuisines.

Although below, we start our journey by taking a look at some of the more famous dishes to try in France.

Traditional Food to Try in France

While you may start your day with a coffee and croissant, there’s so much more to taste on our food tours in Paris.

French Onion Soup

Once perceived as a peasants dish, this French classic has become a traditional starter on menus across the country. Authentic French onion soup is often served with bread or croutons and topped with melted cheese.

Moules Marinières

While you can try mussels cooked in a variety of ways, the traditional Moules Marinières will always remain a classic French dish. Fresh mussels served in a sauce of cream, white wine, garlic and parsley, with some crusty bread and fries on the side. It goes without saying, for the best in France, then head towards the fishing ports along the coast.

Escargots

Cooked in garlic butter and white wine, escargots can be an acquired taste. As for many food-lovers can still be put off by the concept of eating snails.

However, it’s a well-recognised starter and traditional food to try in France that every foodie should try at least once.

Coq au Vin

While a French staple among home cooks, Coq au Vin is a dish that can take some time to prepare to perfection. Essentially chicken braised in red wine, lardons, mushrooms and garlic, choosing the right bottle to finish off the dish is a key ingredient. We’d strongly recommend a good wine from Bordeaux.

Boeuf Bourguignon

Also known as Beef Burgundy due to its origins and use of Burgundy wine Boeuf Bourguignon is another truly French dish. This slow-cooked beef stew takes care and attention while containing the very best of local root vegetables.

Cassoulet

While a favourite in the south of France, cassoulet has become a pub classic throughout Europe. Although another traditional food, it’s again one often refined to the highest of restaurant standards. The dish is a mixture of white beans and meat, most commonly sausages, pork and in some cases, duck or goose.

Steak Tartare

In essence, steak tartare is raw minced beef with plenty of seasoning, topped with an uncooked egg yolk. Although for best results, chefs should use only the finest beef possible, making this a fascinating choice.

Ratatouille

While anyone and everyone can enjoy ratatouille, it’s certainly a dish for the vegetarian or vegan foodie. The dish originates from Provence and features layers of aubergines, courgette, peppers and onions, seasoned and baked in the oven.

Crepes

Whether it’s breakfast, dessert or a snack as part of a street food tour, French Crepes have been adapted throughout the world. The pancakes are made from flour, milk and eggs, which can be served hot or cold.

Mille-feuille

When it comes to creating the perfect mille-feuille, it’s not just about baking, it’s an art form! Thin, delicate layers of puff-pastry, carefully piped crème pâtissière and glazed icing. Often with fresh berries added to each layer.

Wish to learn more about regional cuisine? Then how about our blog on the best food to try in Provence.

Food and Drink Experiences in France

Whether it’s food tours in Paris or wine tours in Provence there are so many food and drink experiences in France. Wherever you are travelling, experience traditional cuisine and discover real food, by real people.