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 …

I created this festive “swaddled” oyster recipe with vinegar, endives and pomegranate seeds. The cooked oyster recipe was inspired by ancient Roman cuisine, especially for producer par excellence Florent Tarbouriech from the Etang de Thau. Made with his famous “Special” oysters and their particularly sweet, iodized hazelnut flavour, this recipe …

A daube is a slow-cooked stew you will find simmering at a grandmotherly pace in kitchens across France, though the best known are from southern France. Traditionally daubes can be made from lamb or beef, though one does not need to travel too far to find pork daubes, bull daubes, …

Suppose you are looking for a fun gin cocktail. In that case, this ghostly gimlet cocktail recipe from Maison Mirabeau is frighteningly delicious if you are looking for the perfectly spooky for your Halloween festivities! Add a dash of activated charcoal powder to the cocktail shaker for that touch of …

Coco Mary Blignaut admits that she has had many lives in one lifetime. Born in South Africa, she has travelled extensively and now lives in Southern California near Los Angeles. An actress, film producer, writer and educator, Blignaut has written several books, including Mademoiselle Puss in Provence and now Our …

You are correct if you think paella is not a typical French recipe. The origins of this rice-based dish are certainly Spanish, from the Valencia region. However, as with many culinary traditions, recipes have evolved and travelled within Europe and beyond. Most markets in Provence have at least one vendor …

Provence is known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine and fresh ingredients. Agriculture in the region benefits from a warm, arid climate making it a suitable environment for growing olives, grapes, almonds, tomatoes, zucchini, spelt (epeautre) and stone fruits. Traditional regional dining customs call for long, slow meals where you enjoy …