Cuisine and specialties of Nord-Pas-de-Calais

Moules Frites

Cuisine and Specialties of Nord-Pas-de-Calais

The cuisine of Nord-Pas-de-Calais is a rich and diverse culinary tradition from the Nord-Pas-de-Calais region in northern France. This region is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes, influenced by both French and Belgian cuisine. The cuisine reflects the agricultural and fishing heritage of the area, with a strong emphasis on local ingredients.

Traditional Dishes

Carbonade Flamande

Carbonade flamande is a traditional beef stew made with beer, onions, and brown sugar. It is typically served with fries or boiled potatoes. The dish is known for its sweet and savory flavor, which comes from the use of dark beer and caramelized onions.

Potjevleesch

Potjevleesch is a cold terrine made from a mixture of meats such as chicken, rabbit, and pork, set in a gelatin made from the cooking juices. It is often served with fries and a side of salad.

Waterzooi

Waterzooi is a creamy stew originally made with fish, but now often made with chicken. The dish includes vegetables such as carrots, leeks, and potatoes, and is finished with a liaison of egg yolks and cream.

Welsh Rarebit

Welsh rarebit in Nord-Pas-de-Calais is a variation of the traditional Welsh dish, consisting of melted cheese, beer, and mustard served over bread. It is often topped with a fried egg and served with fries.

Moules-frites

Moules-frites is a popular dish consisting of mussels cooked in white wine, garlic, and herbs, served with a side of fries. This dish is a staple in many coastal towns in the region.

Cheeses

Maroilles

Maroilles is a strong-smelling, soft cow's milk cheese with a washed rind. It is often used in cooking, particularly in the dish tarte au Maroilles, a savory tart made with the cheese.

Boulette d'Avesnes

Boulette d'Avesnes is a red, cone-shaped cheese flavored with herbs and spices. It has a strong, pungent flavor and is often enjoyed with bread and beer.

Desserts

Tarte au Sucre

Tarte au sucre is a sweet tart made with a yeast dough and topped with brown sugar and cream. It is a popular dessert in the region, especially during festive occasions.

Gaufres

Gaufres, or waffles, are a beloved treat in Nord-Pas-de-Calais. They are often enjoyed with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fruit preserves.

Beverages

Bière de Garde

Bière de Garde is a traditional farmhouse ale from the region. It is a strong pale ale that is brewed in farmhouses in Nord-Pas-de-Calais and is known for its malty flavor and high alcohol content.

Picon Bière

Picon bière is a popular aperitif in the region, made by adding Picon, a bitter orange liqueur, to beer. It is typically served as a refreshing drink before meals.

See Also

• French cuisine
• Belgian cuisine
• List of French cheeses
• List of stews