Bêtise de Cambrai

Bêtise de Cambrai is a traditional French confectionery originating from the city of Cambrai, located in the northern part of France. The name "Bêtise" translates to "folly" or "nonsense" in English, which is said to reflect the accidental creation of this candy. According to local lore, the Bêtise de Cambrai was invented in the 19th century by a confectioner's apprentice who mistakenly added too much mint to a batch of candies. Instead of being reprimanded, the result was a delightful and refreshing mint-flavored candy that quickly gained popularity.

History

The exact origins of Bêtise de Cambrai are somewhat murky, with several confectioners in Cambrai claiming to have invented the candy. However, the most widely accepted story attributes its creation to the Afchain confectionery in the 1830s. The mistake turned out to be a serendipitous one, leading to the development of a candy that was both unique and appealing to the palate.

Description

Bêtise de Cambrai is characterized by its distinctive white and striped appearance, with a light, airy texture. The candy is traditionally flavored with mint, which provides a refreshing taste. Some variations also include other flavors such as lemon, orange, and anise. A hallmark of the Bêtise de Cambrai is the inclusion of a small amount of sodium bicarbonate, which contributes to its slight effervescence and digestive properties.

Production

The production process of Bêtise de Cambrai involves cooking a sugar syrup to a specific temperature before adding flavorings such as mint oil and coloring. The mixture is then poured into molds to set and cool. Once solidified, the candies are cut into small pieces and often given a coating of sugar to enhance their sweetness and texture.

Cultural Significance

Bêtise de Cambrai is not just a candy; it is a part of the cultural heritage of Cambrai and the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region. It represents the ingenuity and creativity of the local confectionery tradition. The candy is a popular souvenir for visitors to Cambrai and is celebrated in the local community with much affection.

See Also

• French cuisine
• Confectionery
• Mint (candy)