A Guide to 20 Timeless French Dishes and Their Stories

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 20:41:00 +0200

Published by CNN Travel, this article explores 20 essential dishes that define French cuisine and its culinary traditions. It begins by tracing the origins of French cooking to the 17th century and highlighting its philosophy of using simple ingredients to create refined, beautiful dishes. Quotes from chefs and authors emphasize the artistry and accessibility of French food. The piece then examines dishes such as boeuf bourguignon, a slow-cooked beef stew enriched with Burgundy wine; bouillabaisse, a fisherman’s soup from Marseille; and tarte Tatin, the legendary upside-down caramelized apple tart. Other famous recipes include French onion soup with melted Gruyère, escargots with garlic butter, delicate chocolate soufflés, and versatile crêpes. The article also highlights savory main courses like cassoulet, quiche Lorraine, confit de canard, ratatouille, sole meunière, and steak frites—each representing a specific region or tradition of French gastronomy. On the lighter side, salads an