Ep 1. Corsican Flavors

Taste of France is a culinary journey that takes viewers on a tour of the various regions that make up France. Season 1, episode 1, titled “Corsican Flavors,” explores the island of Corsica, located in the Mediterranean Sea. Throughout the episode, viewers will be introduced to the unique flavors and cuisine that is distinct to this region.

The episode begins with a scenic view of Corsica’s rugged terrain, where the coastline meets the mountains. The host, Sophie, is shown making her way to the local farmers' market, where she meets a variety of vendors who are offering produce, meat, and cheese that is all sourced locally from the island. Sophie is eager to learn about the local cuisine and find out what makes it so distinct from other regions in France.

Next, Sophie visits a family-run goat farm that specializes in making goat cheese. She learns about the different types of cheese that the farm produces, and how each one has its own unique flavor and texture. Sophie observes the cheese-making process, which involves using only raw goat milk, and tests the final product. She is impressed by the flavor and the quality of the cheese.

The focus then shifts to the traditional Corsican dish, Fiadone. Sophie meets a local chef who shares his recipe for this dessert. Fiadone is a cheesecake-like dessert that is made with brocciu, a fresh cheese that is only produced in Corsica. The chef explains the process and ingredients while Sophie takes a closer look at the final product. She is amazed by how simple yet flavorful the dish is.

Sophie then travels to a local winery. Corsica is known for producing some of France's best-kept wine secrets. It is a small island with a variety of grape varieties. With the help of the winery owner, Sophie learns about the unique process involved in winemaking on the island. From the grape picking process to the barrels used to age the wine, Sophie discovers how the quality and flavor of Corsican wine is achieved. She also has the opportunity to do a wine tasting with the owner and discovers what makes Corsican wine so special.

In the final segment of the episode, Sophie visits a local restaurant to try the traditional Corsican dish, Wild Boar Stew. She meets the chef who explains the ingredient and cooking process in creating the flavor profile of the dish. The wild boar comes from the rugged terrain that Corsica offers, and so the meat is lean and flavorful. Sophie tries the dish, and she is impressed with its texture and the flavor that is unique to Corsica.

As the episode comes to a close, Sophie summarizes what she has learned throughout the show, from the unique Corsican cheeses, wineries, and wild boar dishes, shaped by the island’s specific landscape and culture.

In summary, Taste of France season 1, episode 1, titled “Corsican Flavors” offers viewers an immersive experience of the distinct flavors that represent Corsica's traditional cuisine. Sophie's journey presents a beautiful view of the island with authentic insights into the local farms, wineries, and restaurants – creating a unique experience for viewers.