This post is about not so local food. Bex from WyeDean deli has just got back from visiting family in Franceâs Mayenne region. Now, we are often told that the French place a great deal of importance on their food, but is this true?
Respecting the sanctity of lunch time…
Well, in many ways it is, although the traditional long lunches and meals cooked from scratch are dying out in cities and large towns. However, rural areas such as much of the Mayenne remain steadfast in respecting the sanctity of lunch time and some supermarkets even close for lunch – something unheard of in the UK! Then, of course, is the French sense of pride concerning local produce.
Another fantastic place for cider!
The Mayenne is an agricultural region (and Franceâs leading horticultural region in fact), with prevalent dairy and pork farming. It is also home to some superb cider farms. Gloucestershire and Herefordshire are both renowned cider counties and driving through the Mayenne youâll also spot trees full of mistletoe just as you would here!
Regional specialties
If you get excited visiting supermarkets and food shops abroad, youâre not alone! One curious thing about France is the price of food, which is generally higher than in the UK. Possible exceptions are in-season fruit and veg, local produce (pork products and locally made cheese in the Mayenne). Lidl isnât even a discount store in France â itâs rather pricey! Perhaps this is why food waste isnât such an issue in France.
Vive la différence!
So, you may be wondering what the French have for Christmas. Well, itâs not so different to here. However, the attitude to food is different.
Lunch is the main meal of the day and a social occasion. Although life in cities and busy towns has become more like ours, other parts of France still value the long lunch break, with people going home to enjoy a proper meal before they tackle their work for the afternoon. Sounds good doesnât it?
Interestingly, Christmas Eve is the âbig dayâ for the French, with Christmas Day being more like our Boxing Day.
Cultural differences in attitudes towards food are fascinating, so weâd really appreciate hearing your stories. Wye Dean deli Confidential wishes you a Happy New Year of eating, drinking and being merry!