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the many apple orchards found in the area, as well as its Calvados , a traditional, locally made apple brandy. Calvados is central to a traditional custom in Normandie known as the Trou Normand , where guests are served a shot glass of Calvados , potentially accompanied by apple sorbet, in the middle of a feast or in between two courses. It is supposed to facilitate digestion and help patrons regain their appetite for the rest of the meal. For example, a Trou Normand might be offered in Caen following a meal of Tripes à la Mode , which is a cow’s stomach simmered in a special pot with garlic, peppercorns and root vegetables, warding off indigestion before a traditional dessert of crêpes au sucre . Additionally, the region has a strong tradition of using fresh, local ingredients that are in season, which can be found in the markets of traditional cities and towns, from Normandie to the Pays de la Loire. They offer a wide range of products, from fresh seafood

Tripes à la Mode is a traditional dish in Caen and a well-known specialty of the region.

Chapter 1: Northwest and Paris

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