So just what IS French food?

Many culinarians around the world agree that modern cooking has derived most of its techniques and influences from classical French cooking. At the heart of nearly every dish in the world is something that has been influenced or derived from a classical French dish. Most of the world’s food trends start in French kitchens, as they have done throughout history’s culinary records. Technique, history and style are at the root of all French cooking.

Like all countries, the ingredients in traditional French food are indigenous to the area. On the northwestern shores of France, near Brittany and Normandy, delicious seafood is readily available, and has been very influential in the area’s regional dishes. With its fertile soil and grasslands, northwest France produces most of the country’s apples and dairy products. Because of a thriving cattle trade, the northwest is also home to a large amount of artisan cheese makers.

Provence is located in the southeastern coast of the country. Known as “the land of the olive”, Provence produces more olive oil than any other region of France. Its unique flavor and preparation are the reasons behind both its fame and lofty price tag. One of the most popular dishes to come out of this region’s history is the traditional French Bouillabaisse, a regional seafood stew that includes a variety of local seafood, tomatoes, olive oil, regional herbs, vegetables and wine.

Burgundy is generally accepted as the culinary heart of France. Known for it’s internationally renowned wines, Burgundy has become a Mecca for professional wine makers and Sommeliers all over the world. Burgundy is also home to a rare breed of cattle known as Charolais, whose exceptional taste is a hallmark of French cooking. Burgundy is the largest producer of beef in France.

French cooking has had an unmistakable influence of the cultures and diets of people all over the world and can be found in the roots of nearly every dish as well. Uniformity, passion and perfection are all words that would deftly describe French cuisine.