There aren’t many things as intoxicating as the scent of orange blossoms in the depths of winter, their heady aroma immediately transports me back to fine winter days in Provence. This isn’t merely an emotional response, it’s actually a physical one as the humble orange is revered for its uplifting mood enhancing properties. You don’t have to travel…
Tag: France
Provençal Endive and Walnut Salad with an Orange and Oregano dressing
Weirdly, I am beginning to think about Autumn. I blame the jet stream which is currently acting as a shield preventing the warm air of the south from entering our northern climes. But the nights are drawing in too; gone already are the gorgeous long days of endless light and, come sundown, the candles are…
French Apricots Poached in a Syrup of Vanilla, Star Anise and Lavender-infused Rosé Wine
A much-loved element of French cuisine, apricots have been grown in France for hundreds of years. Right now, they are bang in season and I have no doubt that they are currently playing a starring role on the menus of countless neighbourhood bistros and brasseries from Brittany to Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. This super simple recipe is an…
Provençal Baked Goats’ Cheese and Herb Omelette
The revered food writer, Elizabeth David once said, ‘Summer cooking implies a sense of immediacy, a capacity to capture the essence of the fleeting moment’. For me, it’s all about taking a few humble ingredients and marrying them together with an abundance of fresh herbs to create simple suppers to be enjoyed in the sun….
Warm Tarnais Le Puy Lentil Salad
The term Le Puy green lentil can only be used to describe lentils that come from Le Puy in the Auvergne region of France where they have been grown in the nutrient-rich volcanic soil for over 2,000 years. Highly revered for their refined peppery flavor and ability to retain their shape after cooking, they stand head and shoulders…
Cardamom and Dill 