Friday, April 23, 2010

Le Cordon Bleu - Berry, France

Instruction #15 took us to Berry.


Located in the center of France. Plopped within the Loire Valley. A figurative region – the French Revolution stripped Berry of official standing. Technically within the Centre Region. While Berry can not be found on conventional maps, its heirs – Indre and Cher – can be.

In spite of political exclusion, Berry and berrichons of the region – live on. If only in gastronomic speech.

As its only source of water, the Loire River feeds the province. Carp, eel, trout and catfish. Common to French countryside, pork, veal, sheep, and various fowl are raised. The earth of this region however, does produce some unique items. Grey beans, wild mushrooms, and chestnuts. Also common, cherries, pears, and nuts are harvested throughout.

Valençay and Selles sur Cher are currently fighting. Determining which one will become my favorite goat’s milk cheese. Both hailing from Berry. Paired with neighborhood wines – Touraine Chinon and Sancerre – creates heavenly harmony.

Blood thickened rooster in a pot, coq au vin, is probably the most famous regional dish. Stuffed rabbit, Easter pâté, and pear meringue tart are other common traditions.

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