Want to know why they celebrate Garlic in France and why the French love garlic?
With its strong flavor and strong scent, Garlic has long been an essential in French cooking. But have you ever considered why the French prize this common bulb so highly? Garlic works its magic in all dishes, from the sun-kissed fields of Provence to the busy marketplaces of Paris, giving classic French recipes more flavor and depth. Its culinary significance extends beyond simple seasoning; for the French, it represents their sense of national identity and culinary pride.
Discover the mysteries of why Garlic has such a particular place in French kitchens and hearts by embarking on a voyage through the rich history and culture around this strong plant.
French Garlic
Despite being a native plant of Asia, Garlic was originally introduced to France by the Romans.
The Roman soldiers would plant Garlic wherever they went, as it was believed to inspire courage in those days. Garlic was fostered and used to instill the necessary courage in warriors before they went into battle.
What is Garlic in French?
Garlic is known as “ail” in French, and it comes in a wide variety of forms, from pink and violet to smoked and local.
The most popular are:
- l’ail rose de Lautrec
- l’ail violet de Cadours
- l’ail fumé d’Arleux
- l’ail blanc de Lomagne
- l’ail de Provence
You should attempt many delicious French recipes, most of which include Garlic. It is, after all, a natural flavoring, and unlike butter, which the French also adore using, it contains no fat.
Do the French eat a lot of Garlic?
Garlic is a common component and backbone in many traditional French dishes. But, in contrast to popular belief, French people do not regularly eat too much Garlic. Even though Garlic is used a lot in marinades, stews, and sauces, it is always tempered with other ingredients to produce a complex and subtle flavor profile.
France is one of the world’s top garlic producers, with an annual production of about 20,000 tonnes.
Additionally, a survey published by the French Ministry of Agriculture states that the average annual consumption of Garlic among French people is 1.5 to 2 kg per person.
It can be found in many different recipes, ranging from traditional ones like soupe à l’ail (garlic soup) and poulet à l’ail (garlic chicken) to more contemporary ones like garlic butter and aioli.
The Legends of Garlic in France
Continue reading if you’ve ever wondered where those images of French men with berets, skimpy white and blue T-shirts, and garlic strings around their necks originated.
Of course, everyone has heard the legend that says wearing Garlic around your neck would keep vampires away. But what if I were in your position?
It seems that during the Middle Ages, individuals thought wearing shoes might prevent whooping cough. Additionally, if dipped in vinegar, you may ward off the plague. A legend must be loved.
It is not a legend, but Louis Pasteur was the one who found that Garlic has antibacterial qualities and was thought to be useful in medicine.
The Legends of Garlic from around the world
One of the most fascinating legends about Garlic comes from ancient Greece. People thought the plant sprang from the blood drops that the Hydra, a legendary beast, had spilled. Due to its association with such a strong beast, Garlic gained its reputation for warding off evil spirits and providing protection from harm.
According to traditions, when Pangu opened Heaven and Earth, he created humanity from soybeans and transformed them into Garlic to give them resistance and strength. This is how Garlic is connected to the creation of humanity in Chinese mythology.
During his travels, the renowned Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu is reported to have employed Garlic as a means of defense against demonic forces.
Garlic was employed in rituals in several African civilizations as a defense against bad spirits and witchcraft. It was also used to treat several illnesses, such as fever and high blood pressure, and was thought to have medicinal properties.
Growing Garlic in France
Garlic is grown in two separate varieties here in France. Spring and autumn crops are planted, and both are harvested in July. When planted together, Garlic can endure for several months.
I picture French men wearing plaits of Garlic around their necks.
Thirty types of Garlic are listed in the official French directory, along with information on when to plant, how to grow, and how to harvest.
The Garlic Braid
The garlic braid, sometimes referred to as a garlic plait, is a lovely and traditional kitchen décor that gives an earthy feel to any area in addition to being a useful way to store and dry Garlic. The Mediterranean region gave rise to the inventive garlic braid, which is a useful and beautiful addition to any cook’s kitchen.
Garlic braiding is a long-standing custom in France, especially in areas famous for garlic production, such as Provence.
It’s a generation-old craft frequently associated with harvest time when locals gather to rejoice and prepare to store their Garlic.
Braiding Garlic serves several purposes:
- Preservation: To preserve Garlic, drying is a critical step that braiding aids in. Braiding lengthens the Garlic’s shelf life by reducing the chance of moisture-induced rot by enabling air to circulate each bulb.
- Storage: Garlic can be easily stored with a braid. Hanging it in a cool, dry location reduces the amount of space needed and keeps the bulbs conveniently accessible for use in cooking.
- Aesthetic and Tradition: Garlic braids have an unquestionable visual appeal in addition to their utility. Here in France, I adore purchasing these and hanging them in my kitchen. They perfectly highlight the ancient beams and flagstones, and it nearly seems as though I’m entering Julia Child’s French kitchen.
Pink Garlic
Maybe the most well-known garlic variety in France is the pink Garlic from Lautrec. Legend has it that the first mention of it dates back to the Middle Ages when a poor peddler used his cloves of Garlic to pay for his lodging.
It spread over the area since the innkeeper planted his own after falling in love with the color and flavor.
This Garlic has a more subtle taste than the common white Garlic that is easily found in supermarkets.
It received the respected Label Rouge (Red Label) in 1966, certifying the provenance and quality of manufacture.
Additionally, in 1996, it was granted the Certificat d’Identification Geograhique Protégée, also known as the IPG (certificate of protected geographical identification).
The festival was not established until 1970. Every year on the first Friday in August, it celebrates the health benefits of Garlic. Contests are held to see who can make the longest garlic braid or andouille in French.
Garlic Festivals in France
France’s garlic festivals are a fun way to honor this flavorful and flexible vegetable. The Fête de l’Ail festival in the charming town of Piolenc attracts both locals and visitors with its vibrant atmosphere and variety of foods laced with Garlic. Tastes ranging from creamy aioli to garlicky escargot, guests can savor a variety of dishes that highlight this simple bulb’s flexibility.
Fête de l’Ail Rose in Lautrec
Celebrate the Fête de l’Ail Rose with an incredible spectacle that begins as the sun sets over the charming town of Lautrec. Fans of Garlic go great distances to participate in this special celebration honoring the region’s well-known pink Garlic. A musical arrangement of cooked foods laced with Garlic fills the air, inviting guests to sample a wide range of delectable delicacies.
Every year, on the first Friday in August, the festival is held. But since 2014, the celebration has grown to take place on the Saturday after as well, making it a two-day affair.
Fête de l’Ail Blanc in Beaumont-de-Lomagne
Traditionally, the Fête de l’Ail Blanc takes place on the last Sunday in July. At the celebration, which coincides with the garlic harvest season, this year’s crop and the efforts of the nearby farming community can be honored.
Records indicate that white Garlic has been grown in Lomagne since the time of the Gauls, indicating a long history of agriculture.
The Garlic grown here is a direct descendant of the kinds that these prehistoric people were familiar with and much appreciated for its culinary and therapeutic uses.
Leading the way since 1958 was the local producers’ syndicate, which initiated the present endeavor to cultivate and choose premium garlic according to certain standards.
National Garlic Day
National Garlic Day! Every year on April 19, people worldwide celebrate National Garlic Day, also known as the “stinking rose.” France is a willing participant, of course.
Why do we celebrate National Garlic Day?
More than just a celebration of a smelly bulb, National Garlic Day honors the amazing health advantages and culinary flexibility of Garlic. For thousands of years, humans have utilized this age-old ingredient for both its culinary and medicinal benefits. Garlic is a true superfood that needs to be recognized for its ability to decrease blood and promote health.
FAQS: Garlic in France
Is Garlic popular in France?
Yes, Garlic is a common element in French cooking and is highly loved in that country. It is often used to flavor a variety of foods, including meats, vegetables, soups, and sauces.
What is French Garlic?
Ail de France, or French Garlic, is prized for its exceptional quality and unique flavor. This type of Garlic, which is mostly grown in France’s Provence and Languedoc areas, is highly valued for its potent flavor and strong perfume.
Does Garlic grow in France?
Yes, Garlic grows in many parts of France. Since the land and temperature of the nation are ideal for growing a variety of Garlic, garlic farming is an important form of agriculture.
What is the best Garlic in France?
In France, “Ail de la Drôme” and “Rose de Lautrec” are regarded as having the best Garlic. These types are frequently employed in gourmet cooking and are highly valued for their distinctive flavors.
What is the garlic capital of France?
The town of Lautrec, which is situated in the southern department of Tarn, is known as the garlic capital of France. The “Rose de Lautrec” garlic, a pink garlic with a delicate, sweet flavor, is the reason Lautrec is so famous.
Final Thoughts: Why the French Love Garlic
As you can see, there are numerous varieties of Garlic to enjoy, in addition to its many health advantages. Garlic has always been favored by the French, who use it in many of their dishes.
In France, Garlic is enjoyed alongside cheese, wine, and, of course, bread.
Enjoy L’Ail en France, which can be found in a variety of dishes, such as escargot, prawns, and soups.