Culinary specialties of the Vaucluse: sunshine on your plate
Provence is a celebration of flavours—a delightful journey for the taste buds.
©C. LEROI The rugged landscape of Vaucluse merges seamlessly with cultivated fields, creating a vibrant tapestry of colours beneath the watchful gaze of Mont Ventoux. Fields of cereals and lavender, orchards, vineyards, and olive groves stretch out at the foot of Provence's giant, offering sun-drenched produce season after season. The culinary specialties of Vaucluse are simply mouthwatering!
Provençal food specialties around Mont Ventoux
The cuisine of Vaucluse is a true ode to authenticity, generosity, and the rich terroir of Provence. Among the culinary treasures that have made this region renowned, you'll find a delightful array of sweet and savoury treats that tantalize the taste buds of locals and visitors alike. Prepare to embark on a gastronomic adventure that celebrates the vibrant flavours and time-honoured traditions of this corner of Provence!
Candied Fruits
The fruits that thrive in the plains of Comtat Venaissin are transformed into delicate and traditional confections of Provence. Their artisanal preparation perpetuates a centuries-old savoir-faire, making these sweet treats a true specialty, particularly in Carpentras.
Carpentras Berlingots
These traditional, crunchy, and colourful sweets, known as berlingots de Carpentras, entice with their playful shape and natural aromas. Crafted using artisanal methods, they have become the sweet emblem of the town.
©Coll. OTIVP Nougat from Vaucluse
Nougat from Vaucluse is another famous sweet, known for being one of the thirteen Christmas desserts in Provence. Its crunchy almonds, coated in fragrant honey, perfectly embody the region's indulgent spirit. A delightful treat, nougat is a must-try for anyone seeking to experience rich culinary traditions.
Honey from Ventoux
The rich and complex flavours of honey from Provence capture the diverse flora that thrives at the foot of Mont Ventoux. This golden elixir, with its range of hues, embodies the purity of the local landscapes, allowing you to savour the essence of the region in every drop. Honey from Ventoux is not only a delightful treat but also reflects the area’s natural beauty and biodiversity.
A Culinary Note:
Looking at sampling typical recipes of the Vaucluse cuisine? Be sure to try the papeton d’aubergine (a delicious baked eggplant dish) and the soupe au pistou (a hearty vegetable soup flavoured with a basil paste). These traditional dishes symbolize the conviviality and authenticity of Provence.
Signature gastronomic delights of Ventoux
In the picturesque mountains and valleys surrounding Mont Ventoux, nature thrives in abundance, and local producers expertly harness this bounty. The region is renowned for its sun-ripened fruits and vegetables, each packed with flavours reflecting the essence of Provence. These culinary delights are a source of pride for the region and showcase the rich agricultural heritage of France.
Cherries of the Monts de Venasque
In springtime, the strawberry of Carpentras treats all the senses with its vibrant colour and intoxicating fragrance. A symbol of freshness and sweetness, it is a must-try produce you’ll find at the Provençal markets in the Ventoux region.
Carpentras strawberries
A springtime delight, the Carpentras strawberry awakens the senses with its bright color and intoxicating scent. A symbol of freshness and sweetness, it is a must-have in Provençal markets in the lands of Ventoux.
The black truffle of Vaucluse
The black truffle, often referred to as the "black diamond," is one of the most iconic specialties of the Vaucluse. This region accounts for an impressive 70% of France's national truffle production, boasting several hundred dedicated truffle growers. From November to March, the black truffle can be found the stalls of the legendary Carpentras market, a true institution that draws in gourmet enthusiasts and restaurateurs alike in search of this rare and enigmatic fungus.
Did you know? The black truffle is also known by its Latin name, Tuber melanosporum. Its season typically spans from mid-December to mid-March, making it a sought-after delicacy during the colder months.
©C. LEROI – OTIVP Coll. Olive Oil
Olive oil, often referred to as the liquid gold of Provence, is a standout ingredient in local cuisine and a cornerstone of Provençal culture. Renowned for its subtle aromas, it enhances everything from the simplest dishes to the most sophisticated culinary creations. Participate in the autumn harvest for a fun and immersive family experience that connects you with this cherished tradition!
Muscat grapes of Ventoux
A sweet fruit from the surrounding vineyards, the Muscat grape of Ventoux is yet another delight of the Vaucluse terroir. Its rich, sugary flavour makes it a sought-after table grape for many food lovers.
©C. Constant Small spelt or « Petit Epautre » (in French)
Small spelt, often referred to as the "caviar of cereals," is one of the region's specialties. In summer, the golden hue of small spelt fields paints the Sault and Albion plateaus, dominated by Mont Ventoux. This ancient grain, cultivated for over 9 years B.C., represents the rich heritage of the area.
Tantalise your taste buds and discover the rich tapestry of produce, artisanal products, and regional specialties at the vibrant farmers' markets in towns and villages around Ventoux!