Brittany´s Crepes and Ciders: Exploring Regional Specialties

Located in the Northwestern region of France, Brittany is known for its beautiful coastline, stunning architecture, and mouth-watering cuisine. One of the most famous dishes from this region is the savory crepe, also known as galettes de sarrasin. And when it comes to pairing these delectable crepes with a drink, nothing beats a cold glass of locally-made cider. In this article, we will take a closer look at the delicious world of Brittany´s crepes and ciders.

The History of Crepes and Ciders in Brittany

The origins of Brittany´s crepes can be traced back to the 12th century when buckwheat – the main ingredient in savory crepes – was brought to the region by Crusaders. Initially, buckwheat was used to make porridge but later on, it was also used to make pancakes. These pancakes were often filled with various ingredients such as cheese, meat, and vegetables, making them a filling and portable meal for farmers and workers.

On the other hand, the history of cider in Brittany dates back to the Roman Empire when apple orchards were first introduced to the region. Over the years, cider-making became an important part of Breton culture, with cider festivals and competitions being held throughout the year.

The Ingredients and Preparation of Crepes

The most crucial ingredient for making authentic Brittany´s crepes is buckwheat flour, also known as sarrasin. This flour gives the crepe its distinct flavor and color. Other ingredients that go into making crepes include water, eggs, and salt. Some recipes also call for the addition of a little bit of butter or oil to the batter. Once the batter is mixed, it is left to rest for an hour to give it time to thicken.

Traditionally, crepes were cooked on a large round iron griddle called a billig, but nowadays, they are cooked on large flat griddles or in crepe pans. The batter is poured onto the hot surface and spread out evenly with a wooden tool called a rozell. Once the crepe is cooked on one side, it is flipped over to cook on the other side.

Types of Crepes in Brittany

Brittany is known for its savory crepes, but there are also sweet varieties for those with a sweet tooth. The most popular savory crepe is the galette complete, made with ham, cheese, and a cracked egg on top. Another popular filling is a combination of cheese, onions, and mushrooms. For those with a sweet tooth, the crepes are filled with various ingredients like Nutella, jam, fruit, or sugar.

Aside from the classic round crepe, you can also find galette saucy – a square crepe filled with sausage and covered in sauce. Another unique type of crepe to try in Brittany is the kouign-amman crepe, made with layers of butter and sugar between the crepe batter. This crepe is often served with a side of salted caramel sauce.

The Process and Varieties of Cider-making in Brittany

Cider-making in Brittany is a process that involves a lot of hard work and tradition. Apples are harvested in the autumn and are then sorted by hand. The apples are then crushed to extract the juice, which is then fermented for several months. Each cider-maker has their own unique recipe and techniques for creating the perfect blend of cider.

Traditionally, there are two types of cider in Brittany – the sparkling cider or “cidre bouché”, and still cider or “cidre brut”. Sparkling cider goes through a second fermentation process, giving it a fizzy texture, while still cider is fermented only once, leaving it with a more natural and tangy taste.

There are also many variations of cider, depending on the types of apples used and the proportions of other ingredients, such as sugar and spices. Some popular varieties of cider in Brittany include “demi-sec” (semi-sweet), “brut” (dry), and “doux” (sweet).

Pairing Crepes and Ciders in Brittany

The pairing of crepes and ciders in Brittany is not just a coincidence – they complement each other perfectly. The savory, earthy flavors of the crepes are the perfect match for the tangy, crisp taste of the ciders.

Savory crepes are usually paired with dry or semi-dry ciders, as the acidity helps cut through the rich, salty flavors of the fillings. On the other hand, sweet crepes go well with sweet ciders, as the sweetness of both elements balances each other out.

If you are unsure of which cider to pair with your crepe, you can always ask the server for their recommendations. Some restaurants even have a menu specifically for crepe and cider pairings, making the decision-making process a lot easier.

Where to Enjoy Brittany´s Crepes and Ciders

If you are planning a trip to Brittany, you will find an abundance of restaurants, cafes, and cideries serving up delicious crepes and ciders. But if you want to fully immerse yourself in the cultural experience, be sure to attend one of the many traditional cider festivals held in Brittany throughout the year. These festivals offer a chance to sample various ciders from different producers, and of course, enjoy freshly-made crepes.

For those who prefer to stay at home, you can recreate the experience by purchasing a bottle of locally-made cider and trying your hand at making savory crepes from scratch. This way, you can enjoy the taste of Brittany from the comfort of your own home.

In Conclusion

Brittany´s crepes and ciders are a match made in culinary heaven. They are not only delicious but also rooted in the rich history and traditions of the region. So, whether you are planning a trip to Brittany or want to try something new at home, be sure to indulge in the mouth-watering flavors of Brittany´s crepes and ciders. Bon appétit!