Savoie Sausages with Savoie White Wine

Savoie sausages (diots) are a cornerstone of Savoie cuisine, a true culinary tradition born in the mountains of the region. These pork sausages, seasoned with herbs and cooked in local white wine, offer a rich and comforting dish, perfect for winter meals. Discover the history of this iconic dish and a simple recipe to prepare it.

Origin of Diots:

Diots are traditional pork sausages from Savoie, a mountainous region in the east of France. Primarily made from pork, sometimes with added beef or veal, they are seasoned with local herbs, salt, pepper, and sometimes other spices. Their origins date back centuries, when pork was widely used in the mountains, with peasants making use of animal resources for charcuterie. The use of local white wine in their cooking was a preservation method while adding a unique flavor to the sausages.

Diots in History:

The making of sausages, especially in Savoie, has a long history. In the medieval period, charcuterie was common, and diots stand out due to their cooking in white wine. Traditionally simmered in dry Savoie white wine, diots reflect the importance of wine production in the region. This dish was not only a way to enjoy local resources but also a means of preserving sausages for the winter months.

A Dish of Tradition:

Diots are a staple of family meals, especially during the cold months, when mountain dwellers needed comforting dishes. They are often served at celebrations, gatherings, or festive meals. This dish highlights local products: pork meat, Savoie herbs, white wine, and potatoes, typical of the alpine mountains.

Diots and Savoie Cuisine:

Savoie, like many mountainous regions, is known for its hearty and nourishing cuisine, ideal after a day of work in the mountains. Savoie sausages perfectly fit into this tradition, offering a substantial and comforting dish. Diots are often served with potatoes, creamy polenta, or crozets (typical local pasta), and are paired with a good local wine such as Chardonnay or Jacquère.

Today:

Savoie sausages remain incredibly popular. They are among the most appreciated Savoie specialties, enjoyed both in Savoie and beyond. They are among the must-try dishes of mountain cuisine, alongside fondue savoyarde, raclette, and tartiflette. Today, diots remain a symbol of Savoie cuisine, beloved by gourmets for their authentic flavor and conviviality.

Recipe: Savoie Sausages with White Wine

Ingredients:

• 1 kg of diots (Savoie sausages)
• 1 bottle of dry Savoie white wine
• 2 onions
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, parsley)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preparation of ingredients:

   • Finely chop the onions and garlic cloves.

2. Cooking the onions and garlic:

   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until golden and translucent.

3. Brown the diots:

   • Add the diots to the pot and brown them evenly on all sides for about 5 to 10 minutes.

4. Simmer with white wine:

   • Pour the dry Savoie white wine into the pot, ensuring that the diots are well-covered.
   • Add the bouquet garni, salt, and pepper.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 30 to 40 minutes, until the sausages are cooked through and the flavors have infused.

5. Reduce the sauce:

   • Once the diots are cooked, remove them from the pot and set them aside.
   • Increase the heat slightly to reduce the sauce over medium heat until it thickens slightly.

6. Finish the preparation:

   • Return the diots to the pot with the reduced sauce and let it simmer for a few more minutes, ensuring the sausages are well coated in the creamy sauce.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve your Savoie sausages with:

• Sautéed or gratin potatoes
• Creamy polenta
• Crozets, small pasta typical of Savoie.

For an authentic experience, pair this dish with a good glass of Savoie white wine, such as Chardonnay or Jacquère, to highlight the richness of the flavors.

Conclusion:

Savoie sausages with white wine are a comforting and convivial dish, perfect for a family or friends gathering. This recipe showcases the richness of Savoie products and immerses you in the culinary traditions of this beautiful mountainous region. Bon appétit!