French Guianan cuisine

Achards de légumes

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Red Beans and Rice

Acerola Malpighia glabra

Poulet au riz à la créole

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Crabe à la créole

French Guianan cuisine is the culinary tradition stemming from French Guiana, a region of France located on the northeast coast of South America. This cuisine is a vibrant fusion of French cuisine with influences from African, Amerindian, and Asian culinary traditions, reflecting the diverse population of the region. French Guianan cuisine is known for its use of fresh, local ingredients such as seafood, tropical fruits, and root vegetables.

Ingredients

The staple ingredients in French Guianan cuisine include cassava, which is used to make cassava bread and cassoup, a thick stew. Rice is also a common staple, often served alongside dishes. Seafood, given the region's coastal location, plays a significant role in the diet, with shrimp, crab, and fish being particularly popular. Tropical fruits such as papaya, guava, and passion fruit are widely used in both savory dishes and desserts.

Popular Dishes

One of the most iconic dishes of French Guiana is Bouillon d'awara, a broth made from the awara palm fruit, which is a traditional Easter dish. It includes a variety of meats and vegetables and symbolizes the melting pot of cultures in French Guiana. Colombo is another popular dish, a type of curry that reflects the influence of Indian cuisine, made with chicken, goat, or fish, and flavored with a unique blend of spices.

Cassava also forms the base for Cassava bread, a traditional Amerindian food, and Couac, a type of farofa. Smoked fish and game meat such as wild boar and agouti are also commonly consumed, often prepared with rich, spicy sauces.

Beverages

Traditional beverages in French Guiana include cachiri, a fermented drink made from cassava or sweet potatoes, and ti' punch, a rum-based cocktail with lime and sugar, reflecting the region's love for rum. Non-alcoholic options often feature tropical fruits, such as guava juice and passion fruit juice.

Desserts

Desserts in French Guianan cuisine often incorporate local fruits and ingredients like coconut, cassava, and banana. Popular desserts include coconut sorbet, banana flambé, and tarte à la goyave (guava tart).

Cultural Significance

French Guianan cuisine is a reflection of the region's multicultural heritage, with each dish telling a story of the various ethnic groups that have influenced the region. Food plays a significant role in cultural celebrations and gatherings, with dishes like Bouillon d'awara serving as a symbol of unity and diversity.

See Also

• Cuisine of the Americas
• French cuisine
• Caribbean cuisine

French Guianan cuisine Resources
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