Food Accompaniments
Breads and Crackers
Traditional French: - Baguette: Fresh, neutral canvas - Pain de campagne: Rustic complement - Walnut bread: Classic with cheese - Rye bread: Good with strong cheeses
Inclusive Options: - Gluten-free crackers widely available - Rice crackers for light cheeses - Seed crackers add texture - Vegetable chips as alternative
Fruits
Fresh Options: - Grapes: Classic for good reason - Figs: Especially with goat cheese - Pears: Traditional with blue cheese - Apples: Particularly with Camembert
Dried Fruits: - Dates: Stuff with soft cheese - Apricots: Turkish varieties excellent - Figs: Concentrated sweetness - Prunes: Traditional with Ossau-Iraty
Prepared Fruits: - Quince paste (membrillo): Spanish tradition adopted - Fig jam: Versatile pairing - Mostarda: Italian-style preserved fruits - Chutneys: Reflect multicultural France
Nuts and Seeds
Classic Choices: - Walnuts: Especially from Périgord - Almonds: Marcona almonds special - Hazelnuts: Roasted enhance flavor - Chestnuts: Seasonal treat
Allergy Alternatives: - Pumpkin seeds - Sunflower seeds - Coconut chips - Roasted chickpeas
Vegetables and Pickles
Fresh Vegetables: - Radishes with butter and salt - Cherry tomatoes for contrast - Cucumber refreshes palate - Endive leaves as vessels
Pickled Items: - Cornichons: French essential - Pickled onions: Cut richness - Capers: Good with strong cheeses - Mixed vegetables: Variety adds interest
Proteins
Traditional: - Charcuterie: Classic pairing - Note: Specify if pork-free options needed
Inclusive Alternatives: - Duck and turkey charcuterie - Smoked fish selections - Vegetarian pâtés - Hummus and spreads