Moules Frites – this fishy, salty comfort food combo has become a French brasserie staple over the years, sitting proudly alongside boeuf bourguignon, escargots, soupe à l’oignon and crème brulée. We send a huge merci beaucoup to the Belgians for coming up with the idea. While the exact date is debated, the combination gained popularity in the late 19th century, potentially emerging at the Liège Fair around 1875 or 1885. It quickly crossed the border to northern France and spread across the country, especially at large events like the Lille Braderie.
It’s hard to believe, but way back then, mussels were historically considered a poor man’s meal. Combining them with affordable, widely available fries quickly made the dish a beloved comfort food. Maybe this is why Pierre fell in love with moules frites as a young 5 year old. Family holidays in Corsica was where the love story began. Pierre reminds me of his favourite restaurant belonging to a family cousin with “moules à volonté” on the menu. One bowlful was always more than enough, but the idea of “all-you-can-eat” moules was eye-wateringly tempting. My guess is that he also loved moules frites because he could drop the cutlery and eat with his hands, using one empty shell as a pincer to pluck out the other mussels from their shells.
It’s therefore no surprise that Pierre has created a special event for French Living honouring his favourite moules frites, bringing back memories of all those Corsican holidays.
Book now and indulge in a little French comfort food as a celebration of the last golden moments of summer.
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