La daube provençale – A provençal specialty with beef (or other meats) that you may try during your French immersion program with me in Provence Hello everyone. Today I’m talking to you about one of the most typical dishes of Provence. Here, everyone knows this specialty. That doesn’t mean everyone …

Summer is not the time of year to be behind a hot stove or pulling casseroles out of an oven. It is, however, the time to prepare simple recipes perfect for outdoor dining, whether at your table, poolside or the next picnic location. Provence is generally hot in the summer, …

The artists and artisans of Forcalquier celebrate their 10th anniversary! From July 28 through 31, dozens of creators and galleries of the association Les Ateliers will open their doors throughout the town, providing an opportunity to discover work that is as diverse as it is captivating. In addition, the Ateliers …

This delicious summer menu comes from Stephanie Villegas, a private chef and owner of Laurel, a cooking school in Provence. A Mexican-American, Stephanie married a Frenchman, and they now live in the historic Alpilles village of Fontvieille. Stephanie created a 3-course menu that is ideally suited for summer entertaining. Her …

The winery Château d’Esclans in the Esclans Valley north of Le Muy has had a strong ownership journey, to say the least. Thirty years ago, the winery was owned by the Swedish Match pension fund, with Lars Torstenson as the responsible winemaker, and since 2019 the winery is owned by …

Access to the Calanques National Park is controlled again this summer due to damage to the ecosystem caused by the burgeoning number of visitors and increasing fire risks.  The Calanque de Sugiton, which used to attract up to 2,500 people daily, is limited to 400 entries. Pre-booking one of the …

While you have most likely tried polenta before, if you have not visited the South of France you may not have sampled panisse or socca. Golden brown, slightly crispy and topped with a fleur de sel, it’s hard to resist freshly made panisse. Below is my easy recipe for panisse …

Would you like a delicious, authentic Provençal meal in a relaxed atmosphere? How about a big platter of steamed fish and vegetables plus a side of that garlicky Provençal mayonnaise called aïoli? Or some lamb shoulder that’s been cooked for hours so that it practically melts in your mouth? Or …

This appetizer recipe is from Laurel, my cooking school and professional kitchen in Fontvieille, a beautiful village in the Alpilles. The recipe is quick to prepare and brings together fresh summer flavours. Serve with crusty bread and some chilled rosé or cocktail of your choice. This is an easy and …

What’s On in the South of France? During the summer in Provence and the Côte d’Azur, daytime temperatures range from warm to hot. So, you don’t need an excuse to laze by the pool. The lavender is in bloom this time of year, and the sunflowers put on a spectacular …