Exploring the Local Cuisine of Quimper: Authentic Dishes, Restaurants & Recipes

Welcome to the charming city of Quimper, located in the heart of Brittany, France. Known for its rich history, ancient architecture, and vibrant culture, Quimper also boasts a delightful culinary scene that will leave your taste buds begging for more. From traditional Breton dishes to fresh seafood specialties, Quimper offers a diverse range of flavors that are sure to satisfy any food lover. Let's embark on a gastronomic adventure and discover the authentic local cuisine of Quimper!

Traditional Breton Dishes

One cannot talk about the local cuisine of Quimper without mentioning the traditional Breton dishes that have been passed down through generations. These dishes often feature simple ingredients but are packed with flavor, showcasing the best of Breton culinary traditions.

1. Kig Ha Farz: This traditional Breton stew is made with pork, beef, and seasoned buckwheat dumplings called "farz." The meat is slowly cooked in a flavorful broth with vegetables, creating a hearty and comforting dish.

2. Galette: Galettes are savory buckwheat crepes that are a staple in Breton cuisine. They are typically filled with a variety of ingredients such as ham, cheese, eggs, and mushrooms, and make for a delicious and satisfying meal.

3. Poisson à la Bretonne: As Quimper is located on the coast, it's no surprise that seafood plays a prominent role in the local cuisine. Poisson à la Bretonne is a classic dish that showcases the freshest catches from the nearby Atlantic Ocean. It typically consists of white fish cooked in a creamy sauce with onions, tomatoes, and herbs.

Must-Visit Restaurants in Quimper

Quimper is home to a plethora of charming restaurants that specialize in serving the best of local and international cuisine. Here are a few must-visit establishments that should be on any food lover's list:

• Le Prieuré: Located in the heart of Quimper, this restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their menu includes a combination of traditional Breton dishes and contemporary French cuisine.
• L'Amiral: Situated near the Quimper Cathedral, L'Amiral is known for its warm ambiance and excellent seafood dishes. Their menu features an array of fresh seafood options, including oysters, mussels, and prawns.
• Crêperie Ti Saozon: If you're in the mood for some delicious galettes and crepes, Crêperie Ti Saozon is the place to be. With a cozy atmosphere and a wide range of fillings to choose from, this restaurant is a heaven for crepe lovers.

Traditional Breton Recipes

If you want to recreate the flavors of Quimper in your own kitchen, here are a couple of traditional Breton recipes that you can try:

Kig Ha Farz Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of beef
• 1 pound of pork
• 2 onions, chopped
• 4 carrots, chopped
• 2 leeks, chopped
• 1 small cabbage, chopped
• 1 cup of buckwheat flour
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, boil the beef and pork in water for about 2 hours, or until tender.
2. Add the onions, carrots, leeks, and cabbage to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the buckwheat flour with water to form a thick batter.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the pot to form dumplings. Cook for an additional 30 minutes.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

Galette Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of buckwheat flour
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups of water
• A pinch of salt
• Filling of your choice (e.g., ham, cheese, mushrooms)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the buckwheat flour, all-purpose flour, water, and salt. Let the batter rest for at least 1 hour.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and pour a ladleful of batter into the center.
3. Spread the batter evenly using a spatula to form a thin crepe.
4. Add your desired filling to one half of the crepe and fold it over.
5. Cook for a few more minutes until the filling is heated through.
6. Repeat the process with the remaining batter and filling.
7. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious galettes!

Map of Quimper