What do french people really eat?

It's impossible to say definitively what "French people really eat" because, like any country, France has diverse regions, cultures, and personal preferences. However, I can give you a good overview of common, traditional, and popular foods:

Everyday staples:

* Bread: A fundamental part of the French diet, eaten with almost every meal. Baguettes are iconic, but there are many regional varieties.

* Cheese: An essential ingredient, with a vast selection from soft, creamy cheeses like brie and camembert to hard, pungent cheeses like Roquefort and Comté.

* Wine: A staple beverage, enjoyed with meals and on its own.

* Vegetables: Fresh, seasonal vegetables are abundant in French cuisine, often served simply with butter or herbs.

* Fruit: A wide variety of fresh fruits are eaten daily, often as a dessert or snack.

Traditional dishes:

* Soups: Hearty soups like soupe à l'oignon gratinée (onion soup) are popular, as are lighter vegetable soups.

* Stews: Pot au feu (beef stew) is a classic, but there are many other regional stews featuring different meats and vegetables.

* Meat: Beef, chicken, lamb, and pork are popular, often served with simple sauces or roasted.

* Fish and seafood: Fresh seafood is abundant along the coasts, with dishes like bouillabaisse (fish stew) being popular.

* Pastries: The French are known for their amazing pastries! From croissants to macarons, there's something for everyone.

Regional variations:

* Provence: Known for its use of herbs like thyme, rosemary, and basil, and its emphasis on olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes.

* Brittany: Famous for crêpes, seafood, and salted butter.

* Alsace: Influenced by German cuisine, with dishes like choucroute (sauerkraut) and flammekueche (a thin-crust pizza).

* Normandy: Celebrates apples in dishes like cider and Calvados (apple brandy) and cheeses like Camembert.

Modern trends:

* Healthy eating: More emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, with a focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.

* International influences: Fusion dishes incorporating Asian, Mexican, and other cuisines are gaining popularity.

* Organic and sustainable practices: Growing awareness of the importance of sourcing locally and using organic products.

Remember: The French culinary landscape is incredibly diverse. While the above gives a general idea, individual preferences and regional variations play a huge role.