France · Plat principal
French Main Courses
The plat principal chapter of the index: the French dishes that carry a dinner. Gratins baked until the edges catch, duck with a reduced orange sauce, a Provençal tian, and the melted-cheese suppers of the mountains.
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True French and British Cuisine
Potato Gratin
As I slowly open my eyes in a homely Victorian house in North London, I find myself in a dream-like state. Memories of Lyon and its enchanting…
True French and British Cuisine
Leek Gratin
You might be surprised, but French cuisine is not just about the famous chef Alain Ducasse. Yes, we often think of France as refined and sophisticated…
Roasting Fanatic
Tian
You might be wondering: what are the best vegetables to use when winter seems never-ending and the snow won't budge – what's on the menu? But when…
Perhaps the Ultimate Delicacy
Pan-Seared Foie Gras
After spending a considerable time pondering the perfect version, I find myself gazing at it with a lump in my throat – trust me, nothing compares to…
My Favourite Liqueur, Wine, Champagne and Punch
Duck in a Reduced Orange Sauce
Burgundy: Vézelay, Beaune, Nuits-Saint-Georges, Dijon... Travelling the iconic wine route, we stumbled upon crème de cassis, a vibrant and luscious…
The Crown Jewel
Roasted Duck with Orange Glaze
Another Christmas in London approached, and we had already lost count of the years spent here. We took in the mesmerising light show at Kenwood House…
The Perfect Dinner
Liver with Onion and Date Confit
This is something that truly inspires me. The whole onion theme is just incredible: I adore French onion soup, and a dish called pissaladière, and…
My Favourite Liqueur, Wine, Champagne and Punch
Provencal-Style Sea Bream with Tapenade
As the festive season approaches, I select the champagne for New Year's Eve. Let me share my perspective and maybe help you make your decision. My…
Provencal Adventures
Pan-Seared Giant Prawns with Melon
Yearning for the bright sweetness of summer sun amidst the chill, I recall a Michelin-starred restaurant in Cavaillon. This town in Haute-Provence is…
Seafood Sensations
Aioli
The greatest joy of a seaside holiday, in my opinion, is freshly caught fish – being spoilt every evening with an abundance of fish starters and main…
Say Cheese
Fondue
Picture yourself in a magical winter wonderland in Savoie – a stunning mountain region of eastern France. After a day of strolling in the crisp,…
Say Cheese
Tartiflette
I have a fascinating cheese story to share with you – all about Morbier. This cheese is unique, with a rich history and a sophisticated,…
Say Cheese
Baked Camembert
I came across this cheese with a rather unusual name while listening to my osteopath, a well-versed British lady in many respects. She wholeheartedly…