Few dishes in French cuisine capture the balance of simplicity and depth like soupe à l’oignon, or French onion soup. With its deep golden broth, sweet caramelised onions, and bubbling gratinéed cheese, it’s comfort food elevated by tradition—and a true showstopper for a dinner party starter. A Dish of the People—and the Palace The roots of onion soup […]
Soupe à l’Oignon: A Humble Beginning with a Rich Legacy Read More »
There are few dishes that capture the essence of French bistro cooking quite like steak frites. It’s simple, unfussy, and—when done properly—utterly sublime. For French chef Raymond Blanc, this dish isn’t just a menu staple; it’s a symbol of how good food comes from good technique, not necessarily expensive ingredients. And that’s the secret: the perfect steak frites doesn’t
Steak Frites the Raymond Blanc Way: A French Classic Made Perfect Read More »
My journey into French gastronomy didn’t begin in a Provençal market or a Parisian bistro—it began in Waterstones, Manchester, in the late 1980s. Keith Floyd was at the height of his fame, delighting television audiences with his irreverent charm, a glass of wine always in hand, and a boundless enthusiasm for food. I was hooked. When Floyd on France was released,
Floyd on France: The Book That Lit My Path to French Gastronomy Read More »
Preparing and Enjoying the Traditional French Cheese Course In France, cheese isn’t merely a snack or casual appetizer: it is a proud centerpiece of the meal, typically served right after the main course and just before dessert. From a creamy Camembert to a robust Roquefort, cheese represents a cultural tradition that has been refined over
Cheese: The Importance of the Cheese Course and Ettiquette in Serving it. Read More »
Hands on Learning with expert Chef and Wine Connoisseurs Since starting French Foodies Society I have been asked many times if I would host a French Gourmet Cooking Retreat in France. The idea is still in its infancy but I have clear ideas what I want to do. If you are intestered please drop me
French Gourmet Cooking Retreat in South West France Read More »
French cuisine has long been synonymous with depth of flavor, meticulous technique, and a deep respect for foundational methods. At the heart of this tradition lie stocks and mother sauces—the culinary cornerstones on which countless dishes are built. In the early 20th century, Auguste Escoffier famously codified these essential components, refining and popularizing the classical
Classic Stocks and Mother Sauces of French Cuisine Read More »
Auguste Escoffier, often hailed as the “Chef of Kings and King of Chefs,” played a pivotal role in shaping modern French cuisine and, by extension, the culinary world at large. His influence permeates professional kitchens and cooking schools across the globe. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Escoffier introduced a disciplined, organized approach
Auguste Escoffier’s Lasting Legacy in the Culinary World Read More »
The French Love Affair with ChickenFrench cuisine has long been revered for its sophistication, meticulous techniques, and deep respect for high-quality ingredients. Central to this gastronomic tradition is the humble yet noble chicken. While it may appear simple at first glance, in the hands of skilled French cooks, chicken becomes an emblem of refinement and
The French Love Affair with Chicken Read More »
Coq au Vin stands as a testament to the elegance and rustic charm of French peasant cooking, which has over centuries evolved into one of the most revered dishes in classical cuisine. Translating to “rooster in wine,” coq au vin is a braised chicken (traditionally rooster) dish simmered slowly in red wine with aromatic vegetables,
From Humble Rooster to Gourmet Classic Read More »
Burgundy, located in east-central France, has a storied history of wine production stretching back over a millennium. Monastic orders, such as the Cistercians and Benedictines, played a pivotal role in establishing and refining the region’s vineyards as early as the Middle Ages. These dedicated monks meticulously observed differences in soil, slope, and climate among various
Uncorking Tradition: How Burgundy’s Ancient Monks Shaped the World’s Most Revered Wines Read More »
Discover the secrets to impressing your friends and family with a beautifully put together French themed dinner.
This guide will walk you through every step of hosting a sophisticated and relaxed dinner, from setting the perfect table to crafting a menu that impresses without stress. Download now and bring a touch of French charm to your next gathering!
