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Strasbourg is a highlight of any barge cruise in France that takes in the stunning, and often overlooked, regions of Alsace and Lorraine. Sitting at the crossroads of western and central Europe, this city is bursting with a rich and intricate history, is home to an incredible array of architecture, and is proud of its strong cultural traditions. Perhaps not the first city that comes to mind when you think of culinary delights, Strasbourg should not be dismissed if you are a self-confessed foodie. Known as one of the most unique gastronomic destinations in Europe, it draws its influence from both France and Germany, making its recipes unlike anything you will find anywhere else in the world. With menus made up of hearty fare and rich rustic ingredients such as doughy noodles, cream and sauerkraut, the food will definitely not leave you feeling hungry. Here are some wonderfully delicious dishes that you really have to try when on your barge cruise in France’s stunning Alsace. Choucroute This delicious vegetable dish is really just cabbage and is very similar to sauerkraut, but it is elevated to new levels when prepared the Alsation way. To make the deluxe version, the cabbage is pickled in wine and then stewed with fortifying vegetables and smoked meats. As the stew breaks down the flavours melt into one another, creating the most divine culinary sensation. Coq au Riesling A take on the Burgundian classic, this version is much lighter and made with the local sour white wine, which provides a tangy finish to the sauce. Often presented with boiled potatoes and a simple salad, this is a lighter meal than most local dishes. Tarte à L’Oignon A very versatile offering, this tasty tart can be eaten hot or cold and is often enjoyed as a snack. Pastry and onions that have been caramelised to perfection are the simple ingredients that make this delicious treat sing. The tart is much loved by the locals and served in every winstub (wine bar) in the city. Baeckeoffe Definitely one for the bigger appetites, this casserole takes its name from the local term for ‘baker’s oven’, which was the vessel in which the dish was once cooked. In times gone by, people would collect all their meat scraps and vegetables and pop them into a big pot that they then took to a baker, who would cook it in the oven overnight and have it ready the next day. Today the stew is still made in the same way but without the baker’s oven. The meat and vegetables are slow cooked with white wine and potatoes for hours until the meat is falling apart and melt-in-the-mouth. Tourte Another pie style dish that was once made to feed the farmers grafting in the Alsatian countryside, this is a rich filling offering made with Riesling-marinated meat. You can grab a slice at any respectable Strasbourg bakery. Hopefully, when you visit Strasbourg on a barge cruise in France's Alsace region you will give the delicious culinary offerings the attention they deserve. The food really is delicious and definitely worth experiencing. When you book your barge cruise in France it is advisable to book with a reputable tour operator. You can then rest assured that you’re getting a professional and reliable service, and instead of having to do the leg work yourself, you can look forward to the kind of trip that will no doubt exceed your expectations. Author Plate Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider if you're looking for an all-inclusive, luxury barge cruise in France or other great destinations. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in line to endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.
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