French cuisines - When it comes to the world of culinary excellence, French cuisine stands tall as one of the most revered and influential gastronomic traditions.

With its rich history dating back to medieval times, French cuisine has captured the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts around the globe. If you're a Filipino foodie looking for meticulous techniques developed for centuries, you'll love trying out French cuisine!

From delicate pastries to hearty stews, French Gastronomy offers diverse flavors and textures that will entice even the pickiest palates.

Many consider French dishes as luxurious plates made for the elite. But do not be intimidated! There are a few unique dishes that will satisfy your cravings but are friendly to your budget.

Embark on a culinary escapade with Parisian flavors when you try French cuisine. Bon appétit!

Read more: Experience the Paradise of La Union: Your Guide to the Philippines' Most Sought-After Beach Destination

1. Coq au Vin

This dish may be a mouthful to pronounce, but nothing beats the melt-in-your-mouth sensation it can give! Pronounced cohk oh vah(n), coq au vin translates to "rooster in wine."

This dish traditionally features a mature rooster slowly braised in red wine along with aromatic vegetables, herbs, and bacon. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a succulent and tender chicken infused with the deep, complex notes of the wine.

Coq au Vin is often served with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes, allowing you to savor every last drop of the rich sauce.

2. Ratatouille

If there is any French dish iconic in pop culture, it is no other than ratatouille. This colorful dish hails from a sunny region in Southern France. Historically prepared by farmers and local folk; ratatouille was often composed of fresh harvest from private gardens and farms.

The traditional ratatouille typically features a colorful array of vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. These ingredients are sliced into thin strips and simmered into a symphony of fresh vegetables.

Ratatouille can be enjoyed as a main course, served with crusty bread or a side of rice, or as a delightful accompaniment to grilled meats or fish.

3. Tarte Tatin

If you have a sweet tooth waiting to be satisfied, you should try Tarte Tatin! This heavenly French pastry features apples and transforms them into a caramelized delight that will surely make you fall in love.

The process of creating a Tarte Tatin involves a buttery pastry dough placed over a layer of caramelized sugar and butter in a skillet or a cake pan.

The combination of the soft and decadent caramelized apples with the delicate buttery pastry creates a dessert that is both comforting and elegant.

While French and Filipino cuisines boast rich culinary traditions, there are notable differences in dining customs between the two cultures.

Here in the Philippines, we have this concept of salo-salo. We enjoy our dishes communally and often combine multiple viands or ulam in one meal. We do not prioritize "categories" of appetizers or main courses as we eat our dishes on one big plate. In contrast, French dining customs tend to place more emphasis on structured courses, with each dish served individually.

To truly savor a French meal like a local, it's essential to embrace the unhurried nature of the dining experience. Begin by allowing yourself ample time to enjoy the different courses. French meals typically consist of multiple courses, starting with hors d'oeuvres or an apéritif, followed by the entrée, main course, cheese course, and dessert.

Additionally, make sure to pair your meal with appropriate beverages. French cuisine is renowned for its wine culture, and wine is often enjoyed alongside meals.

French table manners reflect the elegance and sophistication synonymous with French dining culture. Familiarizing yourself with key table manners and etiquette can help you navigate a French dining experience like a true Parisian.

Firstly, be mindful of your table manners and dining etiquette. Avoid placing your elbows on the table, keep your hands in sight, and use utensils appropriately.

Another vital aspect of French table manners is respecting the pace of the meal. Avoid rushing through your meal, as French dining is meant to be a leisurely experience.

Furthermore, it is customary to express gratitude and appreciation for the meal. A simple "Merci beaucoup" (Thank you very much) goes a long way in acknowledging the efforts that went into preparing the meal.

Another experience you shouldn’t miss when trying French cuisine is pairing wine with cheese! If we Filipinos have our Kare-kare and bagoong, and champorado at gatas, your French gastronomic escapade wouldn’t be complete without a good bottle of wine and well-aged cheese!

In France, wine is regarded as an art form, with each region producing its own distinct flavor and pride of its town. Some of the most popular choices include Bordeaux and Burgundy.

Similarly, cheese holds a revered position in French cuisine, with an astonishing variety of over 400 different types of cheeses to choose from.

Incorporating French wine and cheese into Filipino meals can add a touch of sophistication and elevate the dining experience. Here are some tips to get you started!

1. Experiment with different combinations: Don't be afraid to try different wine and cheese pairings to find your personal preferences. The beauty of French cuisine lies in its diversity, so feel free to explore and discover new flavor combinations.

2. Embrace local ingredients: Incorporate Filipino flavors and ingredients into your wine and cheese pairings. Consider pairing Filipino cheeses, such as kesong puti or queso de bola, with French wines to create unique and fusion experiences.

3. Seek guidance: If you're new to French wine and cheese, seek guidance from knowledgeable sommeliers or cheesemongers. They can offer recommendations based on your taste preferences and help you navigate the vast selection available.

4. Enjoy the process: Above all, enjoy the process of exploring and savoring French wine and cheese. Take your time to appreciate the nuances of flavors, aromas, and textures, and engage in conversations with your dining companions about the experience.

Experience the most enjoyable French cuisine with Traveloka! Pack your bags and have a great culinary time in France with Traveloka.

French cuisine is a culinary masterpiece that has earned its place as a global treasure. From the delicate flavors of coq au vin to the indulgent delight of croissants, France offers a gastronomic adventure like no other. To embark on a journey through the heart of French cuisine and culture, we wholeheartedly recommend booking your hotel and flight through Traveloka.

Traveloka provides a hassle-free and reliable platform for planning your French culinary expedition. With a vast array of accommodation options and flight choices, coupled with exclusive promotions and discounts, you can savor the best of French cuisine with convenience and savings.

Don't miss the opportunity to savor the flavors of France. Book your hotel and flight through Traveloka today, and embark on a culinary voyage that will tantalize your taste buds and create cherished memories!