In France, food is not just a means of nourishment—it is a jubilation of life. From luscious produce to delightful pastries, the French hold their culinary customs in high esteem. And during the joyous days of Christmas and New Year, the revelry of food reaches unparalleled heights. So, let’s embark on a visually entrancing voyage through the mouth-watering delicacies that grace the tables of the French during this festive time of year.
A Feast from the Sea
When it comes to Christmas in France, one cannot think of the holidays without envisioning oysters. These delectable creatures are a quintessential part of the holiday season, with the average French household consuming a staggering nine pounds per year, half of which is relished during Christmas and New Year. But it doesn’t end there—lobsters, langoustes, langoustines, scallops, sea urchins, and an assortment of other seafood adorn the tables of the French. The abundance of seafood available is a true testament to the generous treasures of the ocean.
Poultry and Game
During the festive season, birds like capons and chickens from Bresse steal the spotlight. And let’s not overlook the unparalleled delight of foie gras. The French also take great pleasure in duck, quail, pheasant, and partridge: a true homage to the opulent culinary legacy that permeates every festive period.
Bountiful Fruits and Vegetables
While France is celebrated for its savoury dishes, the country’s array of fresh produce takes the celebration to new heights. From a dazzling array of tomatoes to highly esteemed mushrooms such as cèpes, porcini, and girolles, France’s variety of vegetables is truly a spectacle to behold.
Irresistible Meats
For those who adore meat, rejoice! French meat, prepared with precision and care, graces the tables during the festive season. From succulent cuts of beef to flavourful pork, every meat dish is an experience in itself.
A Paradise for Cheese Enthusiasts
Cheese is not just an accompaniment in France; it is an integral part of every meal. With an impressive variety of more than 365 different types of cheese, the French take their cheese very seriously. From cow milk cheeses to sheep milk cheeses, and the iconic goat cheeses known as chèvre, France is truly a cheese lover’s haven.
Extravagant Desserts
The pièce de résistance of the French holiday season is the iconic “bûche de Noël,” a yule log-shaped sponge cake filled with a luscious, buttery filling. And while it may be the star dessert of the season, French bakers and confectioners have a never-ending array of delightful treats that make every meal a sweet delight.
The Truth About Snails and Frog Legs
Contrary to popular belief, snails and frog legs are not as widespread in French cuisine as many might believe. While snails can be found in traditional restaurants, frog legs are a rare sight on menus.
In essence, the festive season in France is a celebration of abundance, flavour, and tradition—where every meal is a symphony of taste, texture, and history. So, if you ever happen to find yourself in France during the holiday season, make sure to indulge in the culinary wonders that this beautiful country has to offer. Here’s to a feast for the senses!
