Provence

by Mark R. Vogel

Provence (PRO-VAWNS) is the southeastern region of France on the Mediterranean Sea.

Bordered by Italy on the east, Provence's diverse topography is characterized by mountains, valleys, beautiful beaches and salt marshes.

Originally a Greek colony, Provence was part of the Roman Empire and eventually became incorporated into France in the 15th century.

As with every section of France, the culinary profile of Provence is influenced by its climate, geography, and proximity to neighboring cultural influences.

The warm weather, coastal location, and impact of other Mediterranean culinary forces produce a cuisine at odds with the stereotypical conception of French food. For example, the lipid of choice is not butter or cream, but olive oil.

Moreover, there is greater reliance on fresh vegetables, herbs, and seafood, (particularly cod and anchovies), than most other parts of France.

Although the Greek influences are evident, Provence's gastronomy is more akin to neighboring Italy than the rest of France. Tomatoes, garlic, herbs, eggplant, artichokes, and almonds are just some of the cast of regulars.

There are a number of dishes that Provence is famous for. Bouillabaisse is their classic seafood stew made with an assortment of fish and shellfish, tomatoes, garlic, saffron, herbs, wine and olive oil.

Bourride is similar to bouillabaisse except that it does not have tomato and is thickened with aioli, a garlic mayonnaise, and another traditional Provencal concoction. Pistou is the Provencal equivalent of pesto and used as a sauce, condiment and as a flavoring agent in soupe au pistou, Provence's version of Minestrone.

Another famous appareil is tapenade, a ground mixture of olives, anchovies, capers, olive oil and lemon juice. In the fall and winter, a variety of daubs, or stews are produced from various meats and wild game.