When visiting Mulhouse, you’ll find a delightful array of Alsatian dishes that reflect the region’s rich culinary heritage. Here are some of the must-try foods in Mulhouse:
1. Choucroute Garnie
A classic Alsatian dish, Choucroute Garnie consists of sauerkraut served with various meats such as sausages, pork belly, and ham. It’s often accompanied by potatoes and can be paired with a good Alsace wine, making it a hearty and flavorful meal.
2. Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche)
A popular Alsatian snack, Tarte Flambée is a thin, crispy dough topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons (bacon). It’s often compared to pizza, but with a unique local twist. Variations can include toppings like mushrooms or cheese.
3. Munster Cheese
Made from cow’s milk, Munster is a soft, aromatic cheese that is a staple of the Alsace region. It has a strong flavor and is often served with bread, potatoes, or in a cheese fondue.
4. Baeckeoffe
A traditional Alsatian stew, Baeckeoffe is made with marinated lamb, beef, and pork, slow-cooked with potatoes, onions, and leeks in a white wine sauce. It’s a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for cooler weather.
5. Kougelhopf
A traditional Alsatian cake, Kougelhopf is a sweet, yeasted bread filled with dried fruits like raisins and almonds. Often served as a dessert or snack, it has a distinctive shape, resembling a bundt cake, and is enjoyed with coffee or tea.
6. Alsace Wine
Alsace is renowned for its wine, particularly Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris. Be sure to sample the local wines, which pair beautifully with the region’s cuisine. You can visit local vineyards or enjoy a glass at any restaurant in the city.
7. Pain d'épices
Similar to gingerbread, Pain d'épices is a spiced bread flavored with honey, cinnamon, and cloves. It’s often enjoyed as a sweet treat during the colder months, especially around the holidays.
8. Flammekueche
A crispy, thin-crust flatbread topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon, Flammekueche is a beloved Alsatian dish. It's often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer and is sometimes made with cheese or mushrooms as additional toppings.
9. Schnacks
A snack popular in the region, Schnacks are small, savory treats often served in Alsatian bars or bistros. These can include a variety of local ingredients, such as smoked meats, cheeses, and pickles, served as finger food.
10. Tarte à l'Onion
A variation of the famous French onion tart, Tarte à l'Onion is a savory pie made with onions, cheese, and sometimes bacon. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for any time of day.
In addition to these delicious local dishes, Mulhouse has a wide variety of bakeries, cafés, and restaurants offering authentic Alsatian food, so make sure to sample as many local specialties as you can during your visit.
