French food, while not as widespread as Italian or Mexican, is famous for being very tasty. Sure, French wines are known the world over, but the baked, grilled, and sautéed goods coming from France are just as good. French language translation is important when talking about French food outside of France, especially since many Anglophones aren’t all that familiar with French-language food terms.
One of the reasons French cuisine has a great reputation, but many people lack a general knowledge about many specific items, is cost. French restaurants are well known for being pricier than the average Chinese, Italian, or Mexican joint. Sure, we’ve all heard of baguettes, escargot, filet mignon, and foie gras, but French culture offers so much more in the way of food.
Many French dishes haven’t been given English names. And we’re not talking about French fries (pomme frites), or “freedom fries” here. French language translation is a good way to get into a French menu and discover magnificent items, such as Boeuf bourguignon, bouillabaisse (fish stew), chocolate soufflé (a no-brainer), gigot d’agneau (grilled lamb and potatoes), piperade (similar to ratatouille), sole meunière, and of course, the very lovely soupe à l’oignon.
Have we whetted your appetite yet?
If you don’t speak French, you might be able to guess what goes into a few of the items above. “Soupe à l’oignon” doesn’t look all that different from “onion soup.” Other dishes might not be so easy to figure out. That’ s why French language translation is so vital to really digging into (figuratively and literally) French cuisine.
It might take a bit of French homework to get the hang of it, but we promise you that your homework has never tasted so good. Bon Appétit!
