Imagine wandering along the charming streets of Paris on a bright day, with the Eiffel Tower towering magnificently above. The promise of a classic French picnic invites your senses as you smell the perfume of freshly baked bread and listen to the lyrical chat of locals having coffee at sidewalk cafes.
Explore the secrets and pleasures of a traditional French picnic spread with us.
The Origins of a French Picnic
The rich history and cultural legacy of France form the foundation of the French picnic custom. Picnics have been around since the Middle Ages when wealthy people used them to eat outside in the beautiful French scenery. Over the ages, these get-togethers changed and eventually became a well-liked pastime for people from every walk of life.
In the 19th century, the idea of a more relaxed, outside supper gained popularity in France. The expansion of public gardens and parks, which offered more areas for people to gather and relax, contributed to this in part.
A unique characteristic of a French picnic is the focus on premium food and expert gourmet preparation. Every element of a classic French picnic, from delicious cheeses and crispy sandwiches to savory meat and fresh produce, is carefully chosen to offer a harmonic dining experience.
The longest picnic in France
Picture a long, lovely picnic set up along the Seine River in France, complete with tables stocked with cheese, wine, baguettes, and delicious pastries. Families and friends get together in Paris as the sun sets over the famous Eiffel Tower to enjoy the memory of enjoying French cuisine while taking in amazing views. France’s most extended picnic highlights the nation’s delectable cuisine and robust sense of community as people unite to enjoy life’s small pleasures.
France organized the world’s longest picnic in 2000 in honor of Bastille Day. The picnic covered a distance of 1000 km, from Dunkirk in Normandy to the Catalan village of Prats-de-Mollo.
Thanks to the organizers, each hamlet was given a customary red and white checkered tablecloth to cover its tables. It was an occasion to remember, with everyone invited to bring food and drink to share.
What is a French Picnic called?
Picnic is derived from the French word “Pique-nique,” which has been used since the thirteenth century.
However, unlike how we conceive of it now, more food was brought out when wealthy people went hunting at this time.
What should you pack for a French Picnic?
When packing for a picnic, choose premium items that best capture the flavors of France. For an added taste boost, add olives and cornichons, as well as a range of cured meats like saucisson or jambon sec.
Essential items are a picnic basket, tablecloth, blanket, and a lovely dish to present what you’re eating and drinking.
The French Picnic Tablecloth
Even though it’s typical, a red and white striped tablecloth is required for every French picnic to spread out the abundance of food and drinks to be savored.
The tablecloth is placed over the blanket, even if one is being brought. When seated on a wooden picnic bench, the tabletop is covered by the tablecloth.
In either case, it’s an essential part of the entire process.
The Best Picnic Blankets
Material is one of the most important things to consider when selecting the ideal picnic blanket. Choose a solid fabric that is impervious to water and readily cleaned in the event of spills or dirt. When searching for blankets to use when sitting in the sun, make sure the surface is soft and soft. Size is another crucial factor; pick a blanket that will comfortably fit all of your picnic essentials without feeling crowded.
Make sure the picnic blanket you choose is foldable. For easy transporting, look for blankets that are readily folded or coiled up into a small size.
Choosing a French Picnic Basket
While selecting a French picnic basket, one must consider both appearance and utility. Look for a basket with a traditional French country feel, such as one with a timeless woven design. Select a size that will hold all of your basic needs, including sandwiches, cheeses, wines, and fruits, while still being easily transportable.
Typical French Picnic Food
This is where the fun starts. Anything indeed goes on a French picnic. I’ve witnessed events ranging from a straightforward gathering featuring cheese, pâté, and baguettes to many courses and an elegant French feast.
A classic French picnic, however, typically consists of a wide range of dishes, including baguettes, cheese, pâté, charcuterie (cured meats), fruits, and salads.
Here are a few ideas for a classic French picnic.
Baguette: Properly made bread is a must for every French picnic. It is available at the boulangerie in your area.
Cheese: There should be a wide range of cheeses, like Roquefort, brie, camembert, and goat cheese.
Charcuterie: It’s traditional to provide prepared meats like pâté, ham, and saucisson, a sort of dry-cured French sausage.
Salads: Favourite dishes include French potato salad, “salade niçoise,” which consists of tuna, olives, and anchovies, and “salade de tomates,” which is a tomato salad flavored with onions and basil.
Fruits: Season fruits include peaches, strawberries, and grapes. There is always a Charentais melon where we are.
Dessert: The local bakery offers a variety of desserts, such as madeleines and éclairs, that are simple to eat and don’t get too messy.
What to drink on a French Picnic
A bottle of wine or champagne is a must-have for any French picnic. But remember to pack lots of water to stay hydrated, along with soft drinks for the kids and the driver in charge.
Taking your dog on a French Picnic
In French public parks, dogs must always be attached. But every time we picnic with Lottie, our border collie, we pick a small, undiscovered picnic spot.
It’s common for French families to travel with their dogs, so make sure they don’t cause trouble for other people.
You choose the ideal location for your picnic and lay down a checkered blanket beneath a large beech tree. When you open a box of gourmet treats, your dog excitedly sniffs about and wags his tail.
FAQs:
What is the traditional food of French culture?
Bread, cheese, and wine are the most traditional foods in France. Almost every meal includes some bread or cheese, but one of the most traditional meals is pot au feu.
What do French people eat on a picnic?
Traditional French picnic foods include cheeses (we love brie, chèvre, blue, and camembert), crusty bread, crackers, a selection of fruits, vegetables, cornichons, some sauce for dipping, butter, and sandwich meats. You can also include a cold salad to round out the meal.
What is France’s national dish?
Pot-au-feu is the national dish of France. This essential version combines beef shank and rump roast with eight vegetables and a blend of herbs for an extra-comforting bowl.
Conclusion: How to have the perfect French picnic
When it comes to picnics in France, the most important thing to remember is to treat them like any other lunch. When it comes to food, the French are never one to take chances, and the picnic is no different.
There are lots of ideal locations where you can set up your picnic blanket and take in the atmosphere.