Loving French Food

There are lots of things I love about France but the food certainly ranks up there.  
I am featuring the magnificent deliciousness of the macaron (French spelling). Those below are from 'lette in Beverly Hills, I bought them for a party there. Gorgeous!! www.lettemacarons.com

No story about macaroons would be complete without mentioning the iconic restaurant and Bakery Ladurée.  The Ladurée Champs Elysées in Paris is the most well know however there are more locations in Paris as well as many locations here in the States.   If you want to make your own macaroons then this is the book for you. It also makes a gorgeous holiday gift.

The Ladurre cookbook

If you would prefer to just buy them, Leila Love sells beautiful and delicious macaroons online.

Leilalove macarons

Without a doubt, the French passion for cheese has found it's way into my life.  I end every dinner party with a large assortment of cheese and some accoutrements.  I usually serve dark cherry confiture as well as some dried fruit and nuts.  Of course an assortment of breads is needed to finish it off.

igourmet cheese sampler

Emeril baguette and bread maker

Just in case you don't want to buy your daily baguette, here is the bread maker for you. 

No article about French food would be complete without a recipe for French Onion Soup.

Here is a simple one:

About 3 pounds of onions cut into half rounds
1/2 stick of butter
4 cups of stock, beef, chicken or vegetable
Pinch of sea salt
Baguette 
Gruyere cheese

Melt the butter, add the salt and sauté the onions in the butter for about an hour.  Cook on low heat until they turn beautifully brown and carmelized.  Add the stock, bring to a boil, turn down and cook for about 45 minutes.

Pour into an oven proof bowl, top with a slice of french bread sprinkled with gruyere cheese and broil for a couple of minutes until cheese melts.  Don't take your eyes off of the soup while under the broiler.

Lions Head Onion Soup bowl

These gorgeous bowls are 4. 5 inches in diameter and are the classic shape for serving your onion soup in. They are oven proof.

If you live in a city where there is a Sur La Table shop, you will find everything you need for cooking and serving your holiday meals. If you can't go into a shop, check them out online. I love the section on New Tools and Gadgets.

www.surlatable.com

Bon Appétit

A Bientôt