While there is no reason to wait until February 14th to show your affection, not acknowledging Valentine’s Day might not be a good love strategy. In France, la fête de Saint Valentin has historical and religious roots. In the middle ages, the belief was that birds started mating in the …

This recipe for Cremoso de Mote is my soft wheat berry risotto variation. It is a dish that we ate twice while visiting Easter Island in 2019. Soft wheat berries (trigo mote) are cooked risotto-style, then sautéed vegetables are added. I didn’t get an exact recipe from the chef, but …

For several years, Chef Burnell called the Var department home. While in the area, she made it her mission to scout out the most delicious and nutritious ingredients grown in the Var gardens of Provence. Perfect for winter entertaining, Chef Burnell’s dinner menu highlights ingredients from the region (almonds, oysters, …

We travelled through Morocco with friends staying in unique and beautiful riads along the way. However, it was the first trip we’ve taken in almost 30 years that didn’t include working kitchens. Cooking with local ingredients is one of my joys when travelling, and on this trip, I learned I …

This easy winter salad is a fun way to bring new flavours to your plate in the cold months. Mixed lettuces, broccoli, and pears should all be easy to find in the grocery store now, making an excellent salad combination. The sweet fruit works with the tangy (lemon, balsamic) dressing …

Christmas punch is not typically Provencal, but as cocktails have become more commonplace in France, it’s time to celebrate with a festive punch recipe from Lindsay’s Feast. What better way to celebrate the Christmas holidays than with a spiced gin punch? Make the base for this cocktail with all the …

January 6th, or Epiphany, is the day we eat the delicious Galette des Rois or King’s Cake in France. As a sweetener, parents (or the pastry shop) hide a small figurine sandwiched among the warm rum-scented layers of frangipane (almond cream) and puff pastry. The figurine, also known as a …

My dessert (below) for Kumquat Bitter Orange Tartlets in a Chocolate Crust is a crowd-pleaser. The chocolate fans will love the crust, and anyone who appreciates citrus desserts will ask for second helpings. While making the crust and the bitter orange curd is a little involved, the result is worth …

When the sun sets early on cold days, nothing is quite like the inviting aroma of Sisteron braised lamb simmered in the oven. Orange and fennel combine with the meat for a warm, zesty flavour. In Provence, lamb from Sisteron in the Alpes de Haute Provence is considered some of …

This recipe for spiced, roasted almonds is delicious, quick to make and a perfect pairing for the cocktail hour. An aromatic, sweet, salty, nutty crunch that is good for you! I make loads to keep in a jar or give away, though they never last long. I adore the almonds …