Olivier De Winne Picture yourself walking along a sunny beach in Occitanie, feeling the sea breeze in your hair and listening to the waves at your feet. Now, imagine the yummy smell of sugar cooking in the air. This is the world of chouchous, a delicious peanut snack that’s really popular at the beach in southern France.
What Are Chouchous?
Chouchous, also known as “sticky peanuts,” are a simple yet delectable confection. These caramelized peanuts offer a perfect balance of sweet and savoury, with a satisfying crunch that keeps you coming back for more.
A Taste of Morocco on French Shores
While chouchous are now synonymous with beach snacking in Occitanie, their origins lie across the Mediterranean in Morocco. This North African country has long influenced French cuisine, particularly in the south. The popularity of sticky peanuts in France is a delicious testament to this cultural exchange.
Chouchous are more than just a tasty treat – they’re part of the rich culinary tradition of the Mediterranean coast, which UNESCO has recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Where to Find Chouchous in Occitanie
You can find these tempting treats at many beaches along the Occitanie coast. Some prime spots include:
- Narbonne Beach: A long stretch of golden sand where chouchous vendors are a common sight.
- Saint-Pierre-la-Mer: Enjoy your chouchous with a view of the rolling sand dunes.
- Valras Beach: A family-friendly beach where the sweet aroma of chouchous mingles with the sea air.
- Sérignan Beach: Savour your chouchous while watching the sunset over the Mediterranean.
The Beach Vendor Experience
Part of the charm of sticky peanuts lies in how they’re sold. Beach vendors, often with small wooden carts, roam the shoreline, cooking fresh batches of these treats. The enticing smell of caramelizing sugar is hard to resist, drawing beachgoers from their towels for a taste.
What Makes Chouchous Special?
It’s the combination of textures and flavors that makes sticky peanuts irresistible. The crunchy peanuts, enveloped in a thin, crisp layer of caramel, create a perfect harmony of sweet and salty. They’re an ideal beach snack – easy to eat, satisfying, and energizing for those long days in the sun.
Try Your Hand at Homemade Chouchous
TOP TIP: Try it at home. It is very easy to make it
While nothing beats buying them fresh on the beach, you can recreate the magic at home with this simple recipe:
- Dissolve 200g of sugar in 75ml of water in a heavy-based pan.
- Add 300g of skin-on peanuts and cook for about 10 minutes until the liquid evaporates.
- Lower the heat and stir constantly for another 10 minutes until the sugar turns amber.
- Spread on a lined baking sheet to cool.
- Remember, patience is key – rushing the caramelization process can lead to burnt sugar!
Perfect Pairings
Chouchous are delightful on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a cold drink. Try them with a crisp rosé from the Languedoc region for a true taste of southern France.
Why Chouchous Are a Must-Try in Occitanie
These sweet peanuts are more than just a snack – they’re a part of the Occitanie beach experience. The sight of vendors, the irresistible aroma, and the satisfying crunch all contribute to the sensory tapestry of a day by the sea in this beautiful region.
FAQs
- Are chouchous gluten-free? Yes, they typically contain only peanuts and sugar.
- How long do homemade sticky peanuts last? If stored in an airtight container, they can last up to two weeks.
- Can I find chouchous outside of beach areas in Occitanie? While they’re most common on beaches, you might find them at local markets or specialty shops in towns.
- Are chouchous suitable for vegans? Yes, the traditional recipe is vegan-friendly.
- What’s the best time of year to enjoy chouchous in Occitanie? While available year-round, they’re most enjoyable during the warm beach season from late spring to early fall.
So, on your next visit to Occitanie’s beautiful beaches, keep an eye (and nose) out for these delightful treats. Chouchous offer a tasty way to experience the region’s blend of cultures and flavors, one crunchy bite at a time!
