7 Unforgettable French Recipes

The seminal French chef Auguste Escoffier once said: “Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.” One could take his logic a step further and make the argument that good French food is the foundation of genuine happiness. Not convinced? Then try one of the following recipes without delay; just one bite and you’ll surely be singing a different tune.

French cuisine is often reputed for being overly fancy and expensive, when, in fact, so much of it is simple, honest, and affordable—coq au vin exemplifies this. Chicken seared in bacon fat and braised in wine with aromatic vegetables, it’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.

This no fuss, no frills recipe is perfect for those with a busy schedule. Simply combine the ingredients in a slow-cooker, turn it on, and come back hours later to a satisfying, impressive meal.

A traditional Provençal fish stew from the city of Marseille with a host of captivating ingredients like saffron, white wine, fennel, and more.

An homage to the beautiful, natural flavors of vegetables.

The marriage of potatoes, cream, butter, and garlic is timeless and delicious; a must-have recipe for the chilly months that lay ahead.

If you’ve ever tried marron glacé, you’ll be sure to love this soup. Its light sweetness is offset by the earthiness of the marjoram and parsnips.

This classic cake is made of layers of thin crêpes, pastry cream, nectarines, and ginger. If this dessert doesn’t convince you of the glory of French cuisine, nothing will.