A kitchen tour : Discover the specialities of the Var

The Var, the emblematic department of Provence, is a land of flavors and culinary traditions. With its Mediterranean climate and rich terroir, this corner of France offers an abundance of local produce and specialties to delight gourmets. In this article, we’ll explore the delights of the Var, from the olive oil of Provence to the region’s famous fruit jellies and must-try specialties.

The Little Sweets

1. Fruit jellies and Calissons de Provence: Pâtes de fruits, especially those made with Solliès figs, are a typical sweet of the Var. Calissons, with their tender heart of almonds and candied melon, scented with orange blossom, are another of the region’s sweet specialties.
2. Provence honey: The Var, with its lavender fields and wild flowers, produces a fragrant, delicate honey. Lavender honey is particularly sought-after for its unique taste.

Var culinary specialties

1. Pistou soup : An emblematic dish of the Var region, soupe au pistou combines fresh vegetables and basil, spiced up with olive oil and garlic. It’s a comforting, fragrant dish, typical of Provencal cuisine.
2. Tarte Tropézienne: Born in Saint-Tropez, this tart is a brioche filled with a rich pastry cream. Sprinkled with pearl sugar, it offers a soft, mellow taste experience.

Local Flavours

1. Fruits and vegetables of the Var: The department is renowned for its sun-drenched fruits and vegetables. Solliès figs, tomatoes and aromatic herbs are just some of the region’s agricultural treasures.
2. Wines of the Var: The Var is home to numerous winegrowing estates producing renowned wines, notably Côtes-de-Provence. These wines, whether red, white or rosé, reflect the diversity and richness of the Var terroir.

The Treasures of Olive Oil and Olives

1. Olive Oil from Provence: The Var is renowned for its olive groves, which produce top-quality extra virgin olive oil. Var olive oil, with its fruity notes and velvety texture, is a must for Provencal cuisine.
2. Olives and tapenades: Var olives, whether green or black, are tasty and often used to make tapenades. These delicious spreads, enhanced with herbs and olive oil, are perfect for aperitifs.

The cuisine of the Var illustrates the diversity and richness of its local produce. Every dish, every specialty tells a story, the story of a department bathed in sunshine and rich in tradition. From Toulon to La Londe-les-Maures, via Pierrefeu and the hills of Provence, the Var offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience, combining flavors, colors and fragrances. To discover the specialities of the Var is to immerse yourself in a land of gourmet delights and expertise.