I guess food and sunshine were the two things that made me want to leave Amsterdam and emigrate to the South of France. It took some years to accomplish this dream, but I didn’t want to wait until I retired on the French Riviera. And so, here we are, strolling weekly through the fresh market, where the flavours of tomatoes and herbs create a wonderful mix of scents.
At home, the barbeque is used throughout the year. Whether it is raining or shining, a good entrecote or T-bone steak with a glass of Cote de Provence makes us feel like we’re in heaven. And when we look around, we indeed are.
French cuisine often gets a rap for being pricey, but that’s a myth. You don’t need a fat wallet to savor its magic. Take Salad Niçoise—straight from sunny Nice. It’s a masterpiece of simplicity. Fresh tomatoes, crisp green beans, tuna, olives, and a perfectly boiled egg. Drizzle it with olive oil and a punch of Dijon vinaigrette. It hits all the palettes on your tongue! A recent survey crowned Salad Niçoise as one of France’s top dishes. The tasty local salad from the South of France entered the Top 20, a fantastic result.
And if you’re in the mood for French dishes and the number 1 on the list, how about Beef Bourguignon? Tender beef simmering in red wine, with carrots, onions, and mushrooms dancing in the pot. It’s rich, hearty, and screams comfort. Then there’s cassoulet! White beans, duck, sausage, and a crispy breadcrumb crust. It’s a hug in a bowl. Blanquette de veau is also a favourite. Creamy veal stew, soft as a cloud, with a whisper of lemon. French food is food for the soul.
Famous Salade Niçoise in Top 20 of most popular dishes
Over 71% of French families dig into traditional dishes weekly. That’s love! And it’s not just for fancy restaurants. You can whip these up at home. Grab some affordable cuts of meat and a bottle of cheap wine (it’s France, after all), and you’re set. Salad Niçoise doesn’t need heat—just fresh ingredients and a little flair. You can toss one together on lazy Sundays, pretending you’re on the Riviera. It’s light, it’s bright, it’s everything.
French cuisine isn’t stuck up—it’s approachable. Think crusty baguettes with a smear of butter. Or a gooey croque monsieur, oozing with cheese. Even desserts play nice. Tarte tatin, with its caramelized apples, begs for a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Crème brûlée? Crack that sugary top and dive into custard bliss. You don’t need a Michelin star to enjoy this stuff. Hit a local market, snag some produce, and channel your French innie. Or outie.
The variety of great food in France is simply beautiful. Every region has a story, from Provence’s herb-kissed dishes to Normandy’s creamy sauces. And it’s not frozen in time. Chefs tweak classics, keeping them fresh. But the heart stays the same—quality ingredients, simple techniques, and big flavors. Start with a Salade Niçoise, then tumble down the rabbit hole of French food. Beef Bourguignon will catch you, cassoulet will warm you, and soon, you’re a foodie convert. French gastronomy isn’t elite—it’s for us, the lovers of good eats. Bon appétit!
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