When you go around France, you will notice that the cuisine is closely intertwined with the culture of the area, and the rural region of Gascony is not an exception to this rule. In contrast to its more well-known counterparts, such as Paris or the Loire Valley, it is not at the top of the list of destinations that many tourists visit when they come to France. However, for those who are willing to delve a little deeper, this wonderful region of the country has a lot to offer, particularly if you are someone who enjoys eating. River boat excursions in France that take in Gascony and the Canal des Deux Mers, which includes the Canal de Garonne and the Canal du Midi, provide the chance to sample a variety of the regional delicacies, some of which we are going to attempt to entice you with right now at this very now. A Brief Introduction to the Gastronomy of Gascony (Gers) You can anticipate eating like a king while you are on board any of the beautiful river boat excursions in France, and the quality and amount of cuisine that you will enjoy during a vacation that is centered around water in Gascony will not let you down. This region is sometimes referred to as “The Land of Gras” (Fat), and it is enjoyed by all of the people who live here. During the fall season, several “Marchés au Gras” are held (markets that sell duck and goose products). If you chance to be on a river boat tour in the Gascony region of France during the fall, you will see these marketplaces everywhere. They sell foie gras, chicken carcasses, and even live fowl on occasion. However, if you are not going to be traveling during this time of year, you need not be concerned since you may still try out all of these wonderful things. Gras de Foie This fatty and nourishing pate is made from the liver of ducks or geese, and its composition varies to a certain extent depending on the bird from which it is obtained. The most traditional kind of foie gras is made from goose, which is smooth and delicate, with a texture similar to silk. People have a preference for the duck foie gras since it has a more rustic appearance and is bursting with personality. Taking a river boat ride will undoubtedly provide you with the opportunity to try both of these. The chickens in the Gers area of France are raised in a particular manner due to the fact that they are fed maize and are allowed to roam freely. This gives them an advantage when it comes to excellence. Poultry known as the Gers The chicken that comes from this region is highly regarded, and chefs have a tendency to utilize every part of the bird when they prepare meals. It is raised in the most humane manner possible. It is the liver that is used in the preparation of foie gras; however, the fillets, wings, neck, carcass, and even the fat are also used in a variety of other cuisines. In Gascony, poultry is a fixture on most dinner tables. This includes the classic yellow birds of the region, which are cooked to the point that they literally melt in the mouth, as well as the black chickens, which have a more nuttier flavor, and the capon, which is a delectable meat. Game Numerous recipes also include game, so while your aboard chef is cooking your meals, you may anticipate being provided woodpigeon, woodcock, or even partridge. This is because many dishes involve game. As a matter of course, game is often braised in the regional wine, which lends it a heightened “je ne sais quois”! Gascony Lamb, beef, and veal beef Therefore, the cows that are found here are often of a hardy breed since they have a tendency to be well suited to the local environment and scenery. As you make your way down the canal, you will be able to see cattle freely grazing in the fields that are located in the vicinity. The cows were formerly employed to labor the fields, but today they are bred specifically for the delicious meat that has left its mark on numerous tables that have been awarded Michelin stars. When it comes to river boat excursions in the Gascony area of France, there is a lot to look forward to for those who are passionate about red meat. In addition, lamb and veal are very well-liked. These are the Gers garlic. The soil in this region is particularly well-suited for the cultivation of the white garlic of Lomagne. Garlic, which is a large bulb with a meaty texture and an occasional appearance of purple stripes, is an essential ingredient in almost every cuisine that is prepared in Gascony. One can only hope that at this point, your mouth is watering and you are considering making reservations for your next water-based trip in this beautiful region of France. You can look forward to a vacation that will most likely leave an impression on your taste buds if you make your reservation with a tour operator that has a good reputation. Publisher’s Plate Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive at European Waterways, which is widely regarded as the most reputable supplier of luxury river boat tours in France that include activities and amenities for all passengers. In addition to being a member of a group of knowledgeable barge enthusiasts, Paul is the first person to recommend the advantages of a leisurely barge cruise to anybody who is searching for a vacation experience that is really one of a kind.