While in France, be sure to try some of the following in your gastronomical journey:

Cheese:

France has over 500 varieties of cheese made locally, including those made from cow’s milk, goat’s milk, and sheep’s milk. It ranges in taste from mild to strong. You’ll hear it described as soft-white, semi-soft, hard, fresh, natural-rind, washed-rind, and blue. In addition to wine tasting tours, be sure to embark on a cheese tasting adventure to include such delicacies as Brie, Camembert, Comté, Epoisses, Reblochon, and Roquefort. You’ll be sure to come across many varieties of cheeses in French cuisine, including Fondue Savoyarde, cheese soufflé, la truffade (potato cake with cheese and bacon), herbed goat cheese and tomato tart, or Gougeres (little cheese puffs).

Truffles

The French delicacy of truffles is truly a prestigious food in which to indulge. Mostly found in Southern France, the truffle is a type of mushroom that requires precise conditions to grow and is hunted by pig or dog to harvest.

Truffles can be found in both white and black varieties, both of which are extremely rare and very pricey. The best recipes are those that let the flavor of the truffle speak for itself, yet many entrees are elaborated with the rare flavor, such as a truffle omelet or foie gras.

Foie Gras

This traditional French dish literally translates to “fat liver.” Foie gras (or fois gras) is made from the liver of a goose or duck which has been fattened for the purpose of preparing this delicacy. Foie gras prepared from duck liver has a strong aroma while that made from goose is more delicate. This cuisine is found mainly in the southwestern part of the country where the beautiful villages and opulent neighborhoods enjoy such succulent cuisine. This meal is often served with local wines which complement the flavors of the dish, such as Champagne, Monbazillac, or Sauternes.

Jason Hartman agrees that everyone should enjoy the finer things in life, and he can help you afford them with his sound investment planning and financial advice. (Top image: Flickr | Kent Wang)

The Jetsetter Show Team

Tags: foie gras, French cheese, French cooking, French food, Jason Hartman, truffles