Bon Appétit: What Makes French Cuisine so Delicious?

Famous around the world for its rich flavours and hearty sauces, French cuisine manages to be both delicate and homely. Its techniques are favoured by top chefs across the globe, with its time-tested recipes providing the basis for many contemporary dishes. But what is it, exactly, that makes French cuisine so delicious? Keep reading to find out.

French cuisine as we know it today dates all the way back to the 14th Century, with a court chef named Guillaume Tirel writing ‘Le Viandier’: one of medieval France’s earliest recipe books. The banquets served during this time actually used a number of ingredients we know and love today, including mustards, meats, and pies. Now, French cuisine is often most commonly recognised for its abundant selections of cheeses and wines.

The idea of ‘haute cuisine’ was not introduced until the 1900s, when chef Auguste Escoffier updated a number of traditional French techniques in a way that was difficult for home cooks to replicate. It was at this point that French cuisine began to be truly appreciated by top chefs for its complex yet delicate flavours, and its fresh, high-quality ingredients. In fact, French cuisine plays such an important role in cookery around the world that UNESCO have added it to its list of ‘Intangible Cultural Hertiage’.

Here are just a few of France’s most famous traditional dishes.

French Onion Soup

This hearty soup is typically made using beef or onions, and is served with a cheesy crust decorated with croutons. This dish is perfect for long winter days.

Bouillabaisse

A traditional stew from Provence based on fish and seafood, bouillabaisse originates from the port city of Marseille, and was once made using the rockfish that local fishermen were unable to sell. Bouillabaisse is made unique by its use of iconic Provençal herbs and spices in the broth.

Beef Bourguignon

One of France’s most famous dishes, beef bourguignon is a stew composed of beef braised in red wine (usually Burgandy) with onions, mushrooms, carrots, garlic, and bacon.

Dauphinoise Potatoes

Usually enjoyed as a side-dish, dauphinoise potatoes make the perfect accompaniment to many classic French dishes. The potatoes are sliced, then baked in either milk or cream to give them a crispy topping.

Tarte Tatin

Named after the Tatin sisters who invented this delicious dessert, French apple tart is composed of apple slices layered on pastry which are then caramelised in butter and sugar before being baked. Enjoy a slice of this tart with soft vanilla ice cream.

Order a traditional French Hamper from The Artisan Food Company here!