12:42
We are enjoying another day of our gastronomic journey on a barge along the Burgundy Canal. In France, eating delicious food is not a special event, it's simply a way of life. Senior assistant Philip starts his day by going to the nearest bakery. Locals appreciate baguettes fresh from the oven. And this baker is a real local hero. French people from all walks of life share this ritual -the love of fresh pastries in the morning. The French passion for good food with the right ingredients begins with the first meal. Homemade jams, croissants, still warm from the bakery, seasonal fruit, Oh, this is a true work of art. and, after all, this is Burgundy, even more cheese. This is Burgundy. A great morning activity is a bike ride. Thank you. Where there
is a canal, there is also a coastal path, and they are very popular with cyclists I like this part. We share the road with a multitude of cyclists of all levels of fitness and the occasional fisherman. We can choose to ride along the canal or go to the neighboring vineyards, where technical roads serve as bike paths, and convenient signs point to stops with tastings of different varieties. Many barge tours include a minibus, making off-site excursions easier. The best attractions of Burgundy are located very close by. The region is crisscrossed by canals and dotted with quiet farming villages. With rich traditions and a proud heritage, there is much to see and experience here. From family castles like Rochepau to majestic medieval
abbeys like Fontenay, all nestled among the alluring golden hills. Some of France's most valuable lands are covered in beloved vineyards. This is the Burgundy Côte d'Or. After a wonderful week, I got into the rhythm of relaxing on the canal. However you travel here, the right pace for enjoying the Burgundy canals is relaxation. Our last stop is at an idyllic park by the canal called Saint-Julien. Steve and I challenged our crew to a game of pétanque. We are playing against Megan and Philip. Pétanque is a favorite pastime in France, and knocking balls off each other is a great way to spend a fun hour on the banks of a canal with a traditional pastis
. I like this game because it's quick and easy to learn, and even beginners can play on equal terms. While passions are heating up on the site and appetites are growing, on the barge our chef prepares one last delicious French cooking lesson. The French love to creatively combine ingredients, such as fresh figs stewed in butter and wine with foie gras, a rich duck liver pâté. This combination provides a classic contrast of textures and flavors. Foie gras is buttery, savory, and tender, while figs are sweet and juicy.
Yes, the sweetness of the figs balances the rich flavor of the liver. This is delicious in French. It's something like the quintessence of richness of taste. No, it should be tasted with wine. This is a light dish. Meanwhile, in the kitchen, they are serving mashed potatoes with horseradish. And then they serve a regional favorite that embodies Burgundy-rich beef bourguignon. It looks great. The best beef in France comes from Burgundy. These are the same white cattle we sailed past, the Charolais.
They make the best meat stewed in red wine, which is also Burgundy. What could be more regional than that? There is something special about the zero- kilometer philosophy, where you have local cows and local grapes. This sauce is really worth it. appreciate. That's why a spoon is appropriate here. Look at this. And bread. As the warm evening turns to darkness, perfect raspberry soufflés complete our meal. Oh, I thought I was full. There is always room for a little more edible France and another delicious memory. I have long loved France and the variety of experiences it offers. And I must say, a gastronomic cruise on a barge in Burgundy is c'est magnifique. Thank you for
traveling with us. I'm Rick Steves. Until next time, have a happy journey.
