Making mayonnaise at home may seem daunting, but it is a right of passage for a Provencal cook. However, after you have seen it made, you will realize that it’s just a matter of fresh eggs and a good whisk. Aioli is an excellent condiment with fries, of course, with …

Easter is a holiday period in France when children have a school break. It is a chance for families to gather over meals and enjoy some downtime while hiding chocolate treats. Below are some traditions and celebrations surrounding the Easter period in France and beyond. I have written the text …

Spring Events in Provence Provence is lovely in the Springtime. As with most of the year, the sun shines brightly, but you should expect an odd rainstorm. Moisture in this period is critical for the grapes, olives, and almonds to start their growing cycles. The apple, pear, apricot, cherry, and …

Famous for its perched medieval villages, Provencal markets, and vineyards, the Luberon Valley is a popular destination for visitors. The hilltop towns of Ansouis, Bonnieux, Gordes, Ménerbes and Roussillon are some of the beautiful stops on most itineraries. However, some villages receive less “foot traffic” but are well worth the …

This delightful tartine with pea hummus and cured ham seamlessly blends the fresh spring flavour of shelled peas and green onions with the rich, savoury notes of ham. Each component of this open-faced sandwich contributes to a harmonious blend of flavours, creating a mouthwatering experience that transcends the ordinary. The …

Last year, I celebrated International Grenache Day (September 15) by sharing a delicious cake created by Sue Tipton, owner and vintner of Acquiesce Winery, for which she doctors a box cake mix to make her Acquiesce Grenache Blanc Cake. Well, you know me — I love cooking too much to …

In Provence, recipes change in concert with the seasons, matching available ingredients and the temperatures. In larger centres like Aix-en-Provence, Avignon and Marseille, the daily markets inspire professional chefs and anyone cooking dinner at home. The classic French onion might spring to mind when you think of French soups, but …

On Wednesday, February 21st, the fifth day of the 90th Menton Lemon Festival, the folklore group La Capeline de Menton performed traditional music, singing, and dancing to retrace the steps of their 19th-century Mentonnais ancestors. Imagine a light flute following the steady rhythm of a beating drum while girls and …

2024 is the year of Marcel Pagnol in Provence, marking the 50th anniversary of his death in 1974. Several special events will be held throughout the year to celebrate the life and works of this brilliant author and filmmaker. Pagnol Celebrations The festivities begin in Aubagne on February 28, Pagnol’s …

This recipe for delicious “Out of this world cheese beignets” or les Bouillidices comes from Taste the World in Marseille: Marseille Cuisine by the Marseillais. The author, Vérane Frédiani, is a Marseille native fascinated with the multicultural diversity and culinary innovation in this 2600-year-old city. It was published originally in …