Normandie: paradise for gourmets

When you come to Normandie, there is no way around the historical sites such as Le Havre, the Le cimetière américain de Colleville-sur-Mer or the Point du Hoc. Museums, monuments and military remains are part of the everyday landscape of the region in the north of France. However, there is more to discover in Normandie. These sights attract several million tourists every year. However, they not only appreciate the monuments and cultural offerings, they also enjoy the culinary delights of the region.

The three C’s are the region’s flagship. The mild climate and rich soil make it possible to keep grazing animals, which are reared not only for meat products but also for milk production. One of Normandy’s best-known products, Camembert, is made from the raw milk of the grazing cattle. The production process takes around three weeks. It is then matured to such an extent that it is used to make a speciality of the region, the famous baked Camembert. This is served with fried parsley leaves and cranberries. Speciality cheeses marinate Camembert in oil and flavour it with marjoram, sage and bay leaves.

The fertile soil also favours the growth of apple trees in the region. The abundant harvest is used to produce the apple brandy Calvados and the light cider. Both are a delight for those who have stayed at home as a useful souvenir after a trip. These are available, quite unromantically, in every supermarket, or you can go on a voyage of discovery to the many small villages where private distilleries offer their products for sale.

The seafood and fish caught along Normandy’s 600 kilometres of coastline are particularly popular in culinary terms. You can eat oysters, mussels or sole and mackerel in almost every restaurant. Freshly caught on the table and you can taste it. Even the supermarkets have an exhilarating range of fish and seafood. The abundance of seafood along the coast is therefore also an important part of Norman cuisine.

Take your time to savour the many delicacies that Normandy has to offer. Treat yourself to one of the savoury desserts such as apple pie or fruit salad, but tossed in butter and served with Calvados. Take time for good conversation and enjoy the rich landscape of the region. Food is celebrated here!

But don’t think that the French classics, baguettes and croissants, are neglected. They are also ubiquitous. Baguettes are best enjoyed with spreads or with savoury toppings. Croissants taste particularly good with lightly salted butter and jam.

Of course, you don’t have to travel to Normandy to enjoy the region’s culinary delights. Camembert, baguette and calvados are also delicious at home. But whatever you choose, treat yourself to some time out and enjoy!