French Markets and Produce

On my recent trip to France, I was fortunate enough to be able to take a cooking class from Muriel Marguerite. Muriel is a delightful woman with an extensive knowledge of the French open air markets. Our group met Muriel outside the Metro and we walked to one of the numerous open air markets. Muriel explained that the French government guarantees the French people that they will be able to shop locally for fresh produce, meats and dairy at least two times per week. The vendors pay a monthly fee to the local city council. In turn the city sets up the market stalls and provides the vendors with electricity and water. Both farmers and resellers have booths and Muriel showed us how to tell which is which. She also told us about the French rating system for meats and vegetables. I feel much more competent now that I know how to tell where the food is grown, caught or raised. The produce is so lovely in these markets. Enjoy these photos.