Common French Food

When people think of French food, often they think of high costs and small portions. However, the scope of French food has evolved over the years. Julia Child was one of the first to bring French food down to the layperson's level. She dispelled the myth that French food was only for the gourmet cook; she opened doors that did not exist and made it possible for people to easily prepare fine French cuisine in their homes. Many French dishes are easy to prepare and have become quite common on restaurant menus throughout the world.

Crepes, Quiches and Omelets

Some of the simpler and more common French foods include crepes, quiches, and omelets. Crepes are very thin pancakes made from a combination of flour, eggs and milk. They can be filled with just about anything and can be prepared as an appetizer, entree or dessert. It all depends on the filling. A crepe pan will be needed to preparation. A quiche is a baked dish and is made from eggs, milk or cream and poured into a pastry crust. The most common type would be the Quiche Lorraine, which includes bacon and Swiss or Gruyere cheese. Omelets are a common favorite and are made of eggs and typically folded around some type of meat, vegetable or cheese.

Souffles and Pates

Additionally, these foods are also common French foods, but may require a little more time and effort. They include souffles and pates. A souffle is a light, fluffy dish that is made from a combination of beaten egg yolks and whipped egg whites. They can be sweet or savory and served as a main dish or dessert. Pates are typically a mixture of minced meat and fat and are made to be served in a spreadable form on a cracker or piece of crusty bread. They are often seasoned with spices, herbs and wine.

A Word about Snails

To many, the idea of snails is not very appetizing. However, when you call them escargots, they take on a new meaning. They are a common French offering and have earned a place on many menus throughout the world. The sauce is crucial in the preparation and snail dishes will properly showcase them.

Frog Legs

Yes, frog legs taste like chicken. They are also best when simply prepared. The classic way to prepare this common French food is to dip them in flour, then fry them in a non-stick plan with olive oil and chopped garlic.

French Dijon Mustard

Grey Poupon is the most popular French-style mustard on the market. Although it is produced in the U.S., it is based on a French Dijon recipe. It includes a small amount of white wine and mustard seed. It often makes appearances on sandwiches and in marinades.