Anyone who has tasted French specialities once will surely tell us that French cuisine deserves its place in world gastronomy. It is not only the unique flavours, but also the variety of ingredients, the preparation and the sophistication of the recipes that are characteristic of French cuisine. In today's article, we will briefly introduce you to six of the most famous dishes of French cuisine. We'll take a look at desserts, main courses and popular side dishes.

Ratatouille

The name ratatouille is familiar to every French restaurant or every lover of the eponymous animated fairy tale. This world-famous vegetable dish originated in the Nice area and can be used in your kitchen as a main dish with crusty pastries or as a side dish. Today, ratatouille is a purely vegetable affair that is also suitable for vegetarians.

The origins of this dish go back to the military front, where meat and beans were part of the recipe. Nowadays, zucchini, tomatoes, garlic, onions, peppers and aubergines are part of the base. Ratatouille is ideal for combining with fresh bread, meat or fish.

Frog legs (Cuisses de Grenouilles)

Well-prepared frog's legs are a delicacy for the French dining room that the locals cannot afford. Their taste is likened to delicious and tender meat, they are often combined with garlic or lime juice, and their popularity is due to, among others, the French writer Alexandre Dumas.

Oysters

Despite the fact that you will encounter oysters most often on the west coast of France and on various special occasions, every French establishment will rave about them. For locals, oysters are a delicacy already raw - just a sip of aromatic wine, a few drops of lemon and the delicacy is ready. But it's not just about its delicious taste. Oysters are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, have aphrodisiac effects and help to lower cholesterol.

Chocolate soufflé (Soufflé au chocolat)

The sweet, fluffy and light chocolate soufflé is a temptation just imagining it. Although many French chefs find its preparation challenging, the result is definitely worth the effort. The first mention of this dessert comes from a cookbook by a chef named Marie-Antoine Carême, who is now considered one of the best chefs of all time.

No wonder, since in addition to the delicious soufflé, he invented béchamel sauce or fries. He was chosen by Napoleon Bonaparte as his personal chef and is credited with many innovations in French cuisine that have influenced gastronomy around the world.

Tarte Tatin

The south of France is known worldwide for a whole range of gastronomic gems. One of them is the legendary Tarte Tatin apple pie, which was created in a hotel in the village of Lamotte-Beuvron. Today, Tarte Tatin is part of every French menu and its dessert section. The delicate buttery pastry with caramelised apples was also loved by Claude Monet, who favoured Tarte Tatin with a dash of Calvados liqueur.

Crème brûlée

Although Crème brûlée is a world-famous term, it has no translation in any language that properly describes it. It literally means 'burnt cream', which is a great insult to this exceptional dessert. Its base is whipping cream, egg yolks and sugar. The custard is most often served in smaller, low bowls and its surface is dominated by a delicious caramel crust.

Madlenky

They are shaped like sea shells, have an irresistible French charm and their ethereal flavour has also endeared them to our kitchen. We're talking about delicious madeleines based on a light sponge cake batter. The base can be complemented with pistachios, chocolate or fruit fillings. However, no matter what kind of madlenkas you try, you will enjoy their taste the most about an hour after they are baked.

Macaroons

Like chocolate soufflé, macaroons can also be quite a challenge for a beginner cook. This is because properly prepared macaroons need to have a harder crust, a soft interior and also melt on the tongue. The basis is almond meal, egg whites and, of course, sugar. For flavouring, strawberry essence, coffee, vanilla, lemon or chocolate are most often used. The finished macaroons are fragile and should be eaten as quickly as possible, as they quickly lose their delicious properties.

Start discovering the flavours of French in your own home. Visit a local French restaurant, add traditional French dishes to your cookbook and indulge in world-famous delights in the comfort of your own home. We recommend simpler French dishes to start with, and gradually work your way up to the delicacies of true French connoisseurs.

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