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Exploring the World-Class Wines of Alsace
- February 25, 2023
- Eat & Drink
When it comes to wine, few regions can compare to the rich history and quality of Alsace. Situated in the northeast of... Read More
Taste the Rich Cultural Heritage of Alsace Through Its Unique Specialties
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by Belinda Ward
- February 25, 2023
- Eat & Drink
- 0
Alsace is a region with a rich culinary history. Located on the northeast of France along the border of Germany, the region has a been fought over by the 2 countries several times, and its food is representative of that conflicting history.
With a delicious mix of Germanic and French, Alsatian cuisine is known for its variety of specialities, ranging from traditional choucroute, to wines and desserts.
You can’t leave without trying the Alsatian Choucroute, a dish that’s sure to satisfy. It’s made with sauerkraut that’s cooked low and slow with a variety of meats like smoked sausages, ham hock, and pork shoulder. It’s the ultimate comfort food, especially on a chilly day, and pairs perfectly with a cold pint of beer. Some recipes will include the Saucisse de Strasbourg.
Don’t miss out on the Flammekueche aka tarte flambée. This scrumptious flatbread has a crispy crust, and it’s topped with fromage blanc, onions, and lardons (aka bacon bits). It’s a local favorite that’s perfect for sharing with friends alongside a glass of white wine.
The Quiche Lorraine is also not to be missed. The classic quiche dish comes from the old department of Lorraine, part of the Alsace region. The recipe includes bacon lardons, cheese and cream with a base of pie crust and egg.
And be sure to try the Baeckeoffe, a hearty stew made with potatoes, onions, and three different types of meat: lamb, beef, and pork. It’s slow-cooked to perfection, and the flavors are out of this world.
And no visit to Alsace would be complete without sampling some of the delicious Kugelhopf, a traditional cake that’s made with yeast, raisins, and almonds. It’s the perfect way to end any meal, especially when paired with a warm cup of coffee or tea.
For the little ones, we have Manala, a sweet bread that’s shaped like a little man. It’s often enjoyed with hot chocolate or tea, and is a beloved treat for children during the holiday season.
There’s also Pain d’epices (Gingerbread), a spiced and sweet treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. It’s often shaped into festive designs like stars and hearts, and makes for a delicious gift or treat for yourself.
Try the crispy and buttery Bredele cookies that come in a variety of shapes and flavors, from cinnamon to almond. Or, indulge in the creamy and decadent créme brûlée that’s flavored with vanilla and a hint of Alsatian schnapps.
And of course, we can’t forget about the famous Alsatian Bretzel (pretzels). These soft, chewy breads are shaped into a classic pretzel form and are the perfect snack to enjoy at any time of day.
Alsace is home to some of the most delicious cheeses in France, including the creamy Munster cheese and the tangy Tomme d’Alsace. These cheeses are perfect for adding a touch of flavor to your meals or simply enjoying as a snack with a glass of wine.
And let’s not forget about the unique Alsatian wines that perfectly complement the delicious cuisine of the region. Alsace produces some of the finest white wines in the world, including the crisp and refreshing Riesling, the aromatic Gewürztraminer, and the rich and full-bodied Pinot Gris. These wines are the perfect accompaniment to any meal, from the savory tarte flambée to the sweet pain d’épices.
With its German heritage, Alsace also has a lot of artisanal Beers that you can try. Kronenbourg, l’Espérance, Licorne, and Meteor are the four major breweries in Alsace.
And finally you could try some Schnaps, a strong spirit (eau de vie) that people deem necessary after a hearty meal to help digestion. Mirabelle flavored is quite typical.
