Exploring Arles: Local Dishes, Restaurants & Traditional Recipes

Exploring Arles: Local Dishes, Restaurants & Traditional Recipes

Welcome to Arles, a charming city in the south of France known for its rich history, art, and vibrant culinary scene. If you're a food lover eager to explore the local cuisine, you're in for a real treat. Arles is home to a variety of traditional dishes and flavors that reflect the region's bounty of fresh ingredients and influences from both Provence and the Mediterranean.

Local Dishes

Arlesian cuisine celebrates the flavors of the countryside, incorporating ingredients like olives, aromatic herbs, tomatoes, and garlic. Here are some of the must-try local dishes in Arles:

• Bouillabaisse: A traditional Provençal fish stew made with a variety of fresh fish, shellfish, and flavored with saffron, garlic, and herbs. Served with a side of rouille (a garlic and saffron-infused mayonnaise) and crusty bread.
• Brandade de Morue: A delicious dish made from salted cod, olive oil, garlic, and mashed potatoes. It is usually served hot and accompanied by a green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Ratatouille: A vegetarian delight, ratatouille is a Mediterranean-style vegetable stew made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. It is often seasoned with fragrant herbs like thyme, rosemary, and basil.
• Gardianne de Taureau: A hearty Provençal beef stew cooked slowly in red wine and flavored with local herbs. The tender beef is typically served with rice or mashed potatoes.
• Tarte Tropézienne: A famous Arlesian dessert, the Tarte Tropézienne is a sweet brioche filled with a light custard cream. It is often dusted with powdered sugar and enjoyed with a cup of coffee.

Top Restaurants in Arles

Arles is home to numerous restaurants that showcase the best of local and regional cuisine. Here are some top recommendations:

1. L'Ail des Ours: Located in the heart of Arles, this charming restaurant offers a cozy ambiance and a menu that features classic Arlesian dishes with a modern twist. Don't miss their Bouillabaisse or their innovative take on Ratatouille.
2. Le Galoubet: Nestled in the historic center of Arles, Le Galoubet specializes in traditional Provencal cuisine. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant is a great place to indulge in dishes like Gardianne de Taureau or Brandade de Morue.
3. Le Criquet: If you're looking for a fine dining experience, head to Le Criquet. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a refined menu highlighting the flavors of the region. Their tasting menu is a must-try, featuring delicacies like local truffles and expertly cooked seafood.
4. La Camargue: Situated on the banks of the Rhône River, La Camargue offers breathtaking views and a menu inspired by the flavors of both Provence and the nearby Camargue region. Sample their seafood dishes or try their delicious Camargue-style rice.

Traditional Recipes

If you want to recreate the flavors of Arles in your own kitchen, here are a couple of traditional recipes:

Bouillabaisse

Ingredients:

• Assorted white fish (such as monkfish, red snapper, and sea bass), cleaned and cut into chunks
• Assorted shellfish (such as mussels, clams, and shrimp), cleaned
• 2 onions, diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
• 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• A pinch of saffron threads
• A handful of fresh herbs (such as thyme, parsley, and bay leaves)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Crusty bread

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté the onions, garlic, and fennel in olive oil over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for a few minutes until they start to break down.
3. Add the saffron threads and herbs, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the fish and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
6. Add the shellfish and cook for a few more minutes until they open up.
7. Remove from heat and serve hot with crusty bread and rouille on the side.

Brandade de Morue

Ingredients:

• 1 lb salted cod
• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Soak the salted cod in water for at least 24 hours, changing the water every few hours to remove the salt.
2. Boil the cod in water for about 10 minutes, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
3. Drain the cod and remove any bones or skin.
4. In a separate pot, boil the potatoes until tender.
5. Drain the potatoes and mash them with a potato masher or fork.
6. Add the garlic, olive oil, and cooked cod to the mashed potatoes.
7. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot with a side of green salad or roasted vegetables.

Enjoy the flavors of Arles with these delicious recipes inspired by the region's traditional cuisine!