Exploring Beauvais: Local Dishes, Restaurants & Traditional Recipes

Exploring Beauvais: Local Dishes, Restaurants & Traditional Recipes

Welcome to Beauvais, a charming city located in northern France. Besides its rich historical and cultural heritage, Beauvais is also known for its delicious local cuisine. As an expert in geography and world cuisine, I am here to guide you through the best dishes, restaurants, and traditional recipes to try during your visit to this gastronomic paradise.

Traditional Dishes of Beauvais

Beauvais offers a delightful array of traditional dishes that showcase the region's culinary prowess. Here are some must-try local specialties:

• Escargots de Bourgogne: Prepared with locally sourced Burgundy snails, garlic, butter, and parsley, escargots de Bourgogne is a classic French dish that will delight your taste buds.
• Coq au Vin: This iconic French dish features tender chicken cooked in red wine with onions, mushrooms, and bacon, resulting in a rich and savory flavor.
• Tarte Tatin: Indulge in a delicious caramelized upside-down apple tart, usually served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Tarte Tatin is a beloved French dessert that originated in the region.
• Poulet Vallée d'Auge: Made with tender chicken cooked in a creamy, apple-infused sauce, Poulet Vallée d'Auge is a comforting dish that encapsulates the flavors of Normandy.
• Andouillette: A specialty sausage made from tripe (pork intestines) and seasoned with spices, onions, and wine. Andouillette is a unique and flavorful dish that is worth trying.

Noteworthy Restaurants in Beauvais

When it comes to dining in Beauvais, you'll find a range of excellent restaurants that showcase the best of local and international cuisine. Here are a few noteworthy establishments:

1. Le Comptoir de Marius: Located in the heart of Beauvais, this restaurant offers a delightful menu featuring French and European dishes with a modern twist. Don't miss their delectable seafood dishes!
2. La Petite Auberge: Nestled in a charming traditional house, La Petite Auberge provides a cozy atmosphere and serves traditional French cuisine using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
3. Le Bistro Saint-Pierre: If you're in the mood for gourmet cuisine, Le Bistro Saint-Pierre is the place to go. Their creative menu showcases a fusion of French and international flavors.
4. La Table d'Antan: Step back in time at La Table d'Antan, a restaurant known for its authentic regional cuisine. Indulge in hearty dishes such as boeuf bourguignon and coq au vin.
5. L'Abrimé: This contemporary restaurant offers a fusion of French and exotic flavors, creating a unique and exciting dining experience. Their menu features dishes inspired by various cuisines, from Asian to Mediterranean.

Traditional Recipes from Beauvais

If you're looking to recreate the flavors of Beauvais at home, here are a couple of traditional recipes to try:

Recipe 1: Escargots de Bourgogne

Ingredients:

• 24 Burgundy snails
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the snails in cold water to remove any impurities, then place them in a saucepan with water and bring to a boil. Cook for 10 minutes, then drain.
2. Clean the snail shells thoroughly and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped parsley, butter, salt, and pepper to create a flavored butter.
4. Place a small amount of the flavored butter in each snail shell, then insert a cooked snail into each shell.
5. Arrange the filled snail shells in a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or until the butter is melted and bubbling.
6. Serve the Escargots de Bourgogne hot with a crusty baguette.

Recipe 2: Tarte Tatin

Ingredients:

• 6-8 apples (preferably Golden Delicious)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 sheet of puff pastry
• Vanilla ice cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel and core the apples, then cut them into quarters.
3. In a 9-inch ovenproof skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the butter and cook until the sugar starts to caramelize.
4. Arrange the apple quarters tightly in the skillet, rounded side down, on top of the caramelized sugar.
5. Roll out the puff pastry to fit the size of the skillet and carefully place it over the apples, tucking in the edges.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Carefully invert the skillet onto a serving plate, so the caramelized apples are on top.
8. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.

Now, armed with knowledge about Beauvais' traditional dishes, top-notch restaurants, and a couple of recipes, you are ready to embark on a culinary adventure in this delightful city. Bon appétit!