Gastronomy is one of the greatest prides of the French. And, for good reason, in 2010, UNESCO included the “gastronomic meal of the French” in the intangible cultural heritage of humanity, an appellation protecting the cultural practices and traditional know-how of the world in the same way as that for notable sites and monuments.
According to UNESCO, the “gastronomic meal of the French” differs from other dietary practices in the world. Indeed, according to the world organization, the French meal is a “customary social practice intended to celebrate the most important moments in the life of individuals and groups”. Indeed, beyond the dishes, the French meal is synonymous with sharing, family and conviviality. In France, for example, at least 1 meal per day is taken as a family.
Similarly, the meal is a real institution in the day of the French. Unlike other countries, the meal takes place at fixed times in France: at 12:30 p.m. each day, more than 54% of French people are seated. In comparison, the most shared eating time in the UK is 1.10pm and it only attracts 17% of the population.
French gastronomy also has a strong link to the land. French regional cuisine induces local products, ancestral recipes and a regional attachment all at the same time. Renowned for its variety, French gastronomy benefits from the diversity of terroirs and specialties from all regions. Can you recognize the region of these typical French dishes? Test your knowledge in the slideshow below.
