A French Christmas Yule Log Of all the culinary treats that grace the French Christmas table, nothing inspires more child-like joy than a rich, chocolate Bûche de Noël. Real yule logs, the kind from living trees, have had symbolic significance to the French for centuries. Until the late 1800s, it …

A debate is raging over what constitutes a “correct” salade Niçoise. To the purists, the rules are clear: no vinegar, no lettuce, no fresh tuna, and no boiled vegetables, like potatoes or green beans. If you add any of these, you will be labelled as a heretic and sent to …

Eating anchovies is one of life’s guiltless pleasures. I say guiltless because they are affordable, good for you, and very sustainable.  But best of all they simply taste great and are quick to prepare. All that is required is a hot grill, a drizzle of olive oil, and a bright …

In the Pacific Northwest, where fresh seafood is abundant, I am generally frustrated with the fish selection in our grocery stores. However, on one shopping trip, I stumbled across a package of flash-frozen ahi tuna steaks. Remembering a Provencal preparation called ‘Thon à l’Oseille,’ or seared tuna with sorrel, I …

Also known as Fourmade, is at its very core a hearty soup made by impoverished people to provide an inexpensive and healthy filling meal. This soup surprisingly rich and luxurious tasting. Once you make the basic recipe try embellishing with leeks, chickpeas, grated Parmesan, cooked rice or even croutons fried in olive oil.

Autumn in Provence Fall is a beautiful season in the South of France, but regardless of where you live, the season’s arrival signals shorter days. The lingering summer light becomes more radiant, casting an ethereal golden hue across our dinner table. You can enjoy the residual effects of Provencal summer …

Recently, I posted a picture of an Apple Creme Brûlée tart, or what essentially could be called the love child of a creme brulee and an apple tart.

I am sharing one of my favourite recipes: stuffed with goat cheese, oven-dried tomatoes, and tapenade. The possibilities are limitless. Pour yourself a glass of rose and let’s get cooking.

Provencal cuisine is a tapestry of culinary influences from all over the Mediterranean, including North Africa. One dish that is perfect for al fresco festive occasions is lamb mechoui (or méchoui) slow-roasted on a spit. For those unfamiliar with mechoui, it is a festive lamb dish from North Africa. It’s usually made from …

This spring when were house-bound due to the Covid-19 pandemic, it would have been easy to feel down. But, that’s not the way we roll in our home, we start baking and cooking to lift the spirits. When life gives you lemons you might make lemonade. I will always make a …