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The rest of the birds does not go to waste and it all gets used, from the ‘magrets’ (breasts) to the legs and wings.įoie gras is a protected farming method in France and the farmers take great pride in the health of their birds.
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The concept of foi gras (literally meaning “fat liver”) originally came from ancient Egyptians, who realised that geese who ate rapidly before the winter to put on weight through the winter months, had enlarged and healthy livers, which were in fact quite delicious. But then again, most delicious foods don’t bear too much scrutiny. Not particularly pleasant, when you think about it. But it is made from the liver of force-fed geese and ducks. Tasting like a buttery, chocolate meat, it is deliciously sumptuous on crisp toast. Trained dogs are used to sniff out the truffle underground (pigs can be used but they tend to eat the produce if they can!)įoie Gras is a food topic that divides opinion. They are highly sought-after and minimally supplied so the price is high. They are very difficult to farm because they only grow in very specific soil and under and between the roots of certain trees. This is why they are often known as ‘black diamonds’. The little black fungi nuggets grow underground and are incredibly expensive, fetching up to 6,000 euros per kilo.
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Truffles are a world famous mushroom delicacy and the Dordogne valley is the ‘world capital’ for truffles. Also the local walnut wine, vin de noix, is a regional speciality. The walnut adds a distinct flavour to delicate cheeses and also to salads. Brought to France by the Romans for their nutritional and medicinal benefits (rich in omega 3, omega 6, fibre, vitamins, magnesium, manganese and phosphorous), they flourish in the Dordogne region. The walnuts of Dordogne are a key part of the local agriculture and food culture. Before you start, you might want to decide who is the designated driver, or make sure you’re not driving afterwards! Also, be warned – after a few sample glasses you might be somewhat overzealous and buy a crate of Dordogne wine or two. Most ‘vignerons’ are proud of their wonderful wines and will let you sample a few while they show you around their work. If they have a sign saying they offer tours, they are usually happy and helpful to do so. If you find yourself in the area, make sure to locate almost any wine vinyard which offers tours (“visite des vignobles”). The Perigord Pourpre (Purple Perigord) is dry and warm for much of the year hence its wines are fantastic, with Bergerac and St Emillion chief amongst many. Most regional foods and traditions of food and drink are based around the geography and its effect on agriculture Riberac is another nice Dordogne village with a good swimming pool and interesting markets. Le Bugue is another stunning small town in Dordogne France well worth a visit with caves, fine wines and great atmosphere. Or just sit, drink the wine and soak up the sunshine. It sits along the Dordogne river edge and there are plenty of watersports to do along the river. La Roque-Gageac is one of the “Plus Belle Villages de France” (most beautiful villages in France) and it is well deserved. It is known for its cité religeuese, but mostly for the stunning fact that the village is thriving despite clinging to the cliff edge! Rocamadour is a small village that looks like it is glued onto a cliff-side, defying gravity. The canoeing is a must, if you can, and the Brantome market and Jardin Tranquilles are a must-see also. The grottes de Abbaye de Brantome is the ancient caves which have bas-relief sculptures etched in the rock. Walk around for 2 hours and you will see most of its old beauty. The old Roman-era church of Saint Jacques is a resting stop on the pilgrims Santiago di Compostella route.īrantome (mentioned above for canoeing) is a beautiful town in Dordogne France. The Maison des Vins in the cloistre will help you with this! You can also take a barge down the river for a 1-hour trip.
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This is a great town to spend a few days getting to know the local wines. Family day out from the Gite – VeloRail Great Places in Dordogne Franceīergerac is a beautiful medieval town with houses of half-timber that will take you back in time.