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France’s rich culinary tradition is deeply connected to its seasonal ingredients. In February, as winter lingers and spring slowly approaches, markets across the country are filled with a mix of hearty root vegetables, citrus fruits, and fresh seafood. Here’s a look at what’s in season this month and how you can make the most of these delicious French ingredients.
Vegetables in Season
• Leeks (Poireaux) – A staple in many French dishes, leeks are perfect for soups like potage parmentier (leek and potato soup).
• Cabbage (Chou) – Whether in a comforting chou farci (stuffed cabbage) or a simple sauté, cabbage is a winter essential.
• Pumpkin (Potiron) – Sweet and nutty, pumpkin works well in creamy soups or roasted with herbs.
• Endives – Slightly bitter, endives are often enjoyed raw in salads or baked with ham and béchamel sauce (endives au jambon).
• Black Radish (Radis noir) – This peppery root vegetable adds a refreshing crunch to salads.
Fruits in Season
• Oranges & Clementines – Bursting with vitamin C, these citrus fruits brighten up winter desserts, marmalades, and fresh juices.
• Pears (Poires) – Whether poached in red wine (poires au vin rouge) or baked in tarts, pears are a February favorite.
• Apples (Pommes) – A year-round staple, apples shine in classics like tarte tatin.
• Kiwi – Grown in the southwest of France, kiwis are at their peak, perfect for fresh snacks or fruit salads.
Seafood in Season
• Scallops (Coquilles Saint-Jacques) – Delicate and sweet, scallops are often seared or baked with a creamy sauce.
• Oysters (Huîtres) – A highlight of French seafood culture, oysters are enjoyed raw with a squeeze of lemon or a shallot vinaigrette.
• Mussels (Moules) – Ideal for a steaming pot of moules marinières with white wine and garlic.
How to Use These Ingredients
Looking for inspiration? Try these simple French recipes with seasonal ingredients:
• Leek and potato soup – A warm and comforting classic.
• Endives au jambon – Baked endives wrapped in ham with béchamel sauce.
• Scallops with butter and garlic – A quick and elegant dish.
• Poached pears in red wine – A perfect winter dessert.
