French cooking has a reputation for finesse, and these ten classics show why. From coq au vin to crêpes Suzette, each is a dish worth knowing and worth making at home.
1. Coq au Vin
A stew from the French countryside: chicken braised slowly in red wine with mushrooms, onions, and bacon.
Related: Gordon Ramsay’s Coq au Vin recipe.
2. Bouillabaisse
The Provençal fish stew of Marseille: fresh fish and shellfish simmered in a broth of herbs and spices.
3. Ratatouille
A Provençal vegetable stew of eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, seasoned with herbs. As good to look at as it is to eat.
4. Boeuf Bourguignon
The classic beef stew of Burgundy: beef marinated and slow-cooked in red wine and beef stock with carrots, onions, a bouquet garni, mushrooms, and bacon.
5. Quiche Lorraine
A savory pie from the Lorraine region: a flaky crust filled with eggs, cream, and lardons, often topped with melted cheese.
6. Duck Confit
From Gascony: duck legs cooked slowly in their own fat until tender, with skin that crisps up. Proof of how far a few good ingredients can go.
7. Tarte Tatin
An upside-down apple tart: the apples caramelize in butter and sugar before baking. Serve it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
8. Croque-Monsieur
The bistro take on a grilled ham and cheese sandwich, usually made with Emmental or Gruyère and often covered in béchamel sauce.
9. Crêpes Suzette
Thin crêpes in a sauce of caramelized sugar, butter, orange juice, and Grand Marnier, flambeed before serving. A sprinkle of grated orange zest finishes them.
10. Soupe à l’Oignon
Caramelized onions in a rich beef stock, usually gratineed with croutons and melted cheese. Some versions add a splash of red wine for depth.
Each of these dishes carries a region’s tradition with it. Pick one and bring a taste of France to your table.