Culinary Delights of Calais: Exploring Local Dishes, Restaurants and Recipes
Culinary Delights of Calais: Exploring Local Dishes, Restaurants, and Recipes
Introduction to Calais Cuisine
Calais, a charming coastal town in northern France, offers a delightful mix of French, Belgian, and English influences in its culinary scene. With its proximity to the English Channel and rich agricultural land, Calais boasts of fresh seafood, flavorful meats, and delicious cheeses, making it a haven for food lovers.
Famous Local Dishes
When in Calais, make sure to indulge in some of the region's famous dishes:
- 1. Coquilles St. Jacques: This is a classic dish made with scallops, often served in a creamy sauce and garnished with breadcrumbs. It's a perfect representation of Calais' connection to the sea.
- 2. Carbonade Flamande: A hearty beef stew, slow-cooked with beer, onions, and spices. This dish showcases Calais' Belgian influences and is a must-try for meat lovers.
- 3. Welsh Rarebit: Originally from Wales but popular in Calais, Welsh Rarebit is a delicious dish made with a savory cheese sauce served over toasted bread. It's a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
- 4. Poached Dover Sole: As Calais is a coastal town, fresh seafood is abundant. Indulge in delicately poached Dover sole, served simply with a drizzle of lemon butter.
- 5. Tarte à la Crème: This delectable pastry is a sweet treat made with a delicate crust and a rich, creamy filling. Pair it with a cup of black coffee for a quintessentially French experience.
Top Restaurants in Calais
1. Le Channel Restaurant
Located in the heart of Calais, Le Channel Restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Their menu features a range of French and European dishes, including seafood and traditional French specialties.
2. La Sole Meunière
This charming seafood restaurant is famous for its beautifully cooked Dover sole dishes. From classic preparations to innovative twists, La Sole Meunière is a haven for seafood lovers.
3. Brasserie Le Parvis
Brasserie Le Parvis offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, serving traditional French dishes with a modern flair. From steaks and fish to vegetarian options, there is something for everyone at this popular Calais eatery.
Traditional Recipes to Try at Home
1. Coquilles St. Jacques
Ingredients:
- - Fresh scallops
- - Cream
- - Shallots
- - White wine
- - Butter
- - Breadcrumbs
- - Chopped parsley
- - Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- 1. In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped shallots and cook until translucent.
- 2. Add scallops to the pan and cook for a few minutes on each side until they turn opaque.
- 3. Pour in white wine and let it evaporate slightly. Add cream and season with salt and pepper.
- 4. Simmer the mixture until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat.
- 5. In a separate pan, melt butter and add breadcrumbs. Cook until breadcrumbs turn golden.
- 6. Serve the scallops in their shells or on a plate, generously drizzling them with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle with the toasted breadcrumbs and chopped parsley.
2. Carbonade Flamande
Ingredients:
- - Beef (such as chuck or stewing beef), cut into cubes
- - Onions, sliced
- - Belgian beer
- - Brown sugar
- - Mustard
- - Beef broth
- - Bay leaves
- - Thyme
- - Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- 1. In a large Dutch oven, brown the beef cubes. Remove the beef and set aside.
- 2. In the same pot, add the sliced onions and cook until softened and caramelized.
- 3. Return the beef to the pot and add the brown sugar, mustard, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir to combine.
- 4. Pour in the Belgian beer and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper.
- 5. Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- 6. Serve the Carbonade Flamande hot, accompanied by crusty bread or fries.
Explore Calais' Culinary Scene
While these dishes and recipes give you a taste of Calais' culinary offerings, there is nothing quite like experiencing the town's gastronomy firsthand. Explore the local markets, try regional specialties, and dine at family-run establishments to fully immerse yourself in the flavors of Calais.