Author Archives: Meg

Frites maison

Posted on March 8, 2019 by Meg

Are French fries the ultimate French food? They may have been, but their quality in bistros has declined so much over the years that their enduring popularity here in France is a mystery. I would walk across Paris for good … Continue reading →

Posted in 8. Vegetables | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Concombres à la crème

Posted on February 22, 2019 by Meg

Simple starters are having a moment in Paris, and today I am featuring one of my favorites, cucumbers in cream. This tasty dish may be enhanced with the herb of your choice – cilantro, dill, chives or chervil – and … Continue reading →

Posted in 1. Starters | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

Couscous Royal

Posted on February 8, 2019 by Meg

When the French are asked to name their favorite dishes, couscous invariably comes near the top of the list. And why not? This import from North Africa is delicious, economical and healthy. The fluffy semolina grain forms a bed for … Continue reading →

Posted in 7. Meat Dishes | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

Harengs pommes à l’huile

Posted on January 25, 2019 by Meg

Smoked herring and potatoes bathed in a gentle vinaigrette is a classic French bistro starter. In this rendition, two types of beets are added to the plate — cooked red beets and raw, striped heirloom beets — along with onion … Continue reading →

Posted in 1. Starters | Tagged , , , , | 4 Comments

Soupe de haricots blancs

Posted on January 11, 2019 by Meg

With the holidays behind us, it’s time for simpler fare. Rustic and wholesome, French white bean soup makes a fine January meal. Begin or follow with a salad, add some cheese and fruit, open a bottle of red and voilà. … Continue reading →

Posted in 2. Soups | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Linzertorte

Posted on December 28, 2018 by Meg

Linzertorte is one of my favorite desserts, and when better to serve it than over the holidays? This classic cake, which takes its name from the Austrian town of Linz, is now enjoyed worldwide. The nutty shortbread-style pastry is filled … Continue reading →

Posted in Desserts | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Oie rôtie de Noël

Posted on December 14, 2018 by Meg

Roast goose was a traditional Christmas dish in France for many years, probably for centuries, but it is rather rare on holiday tables these days, having ceded its place to turkey, capon or duck. Nonetheless, roast goose is delicious. This … Continue reading →

Posted in 6. Poultry | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Salade mâche-endives

Posted on November 30, 2018 by Meg

This is a versatile salad featuring two types of greens that come into their own in late autumn and winter: mâche (aka lamb’s lettuce) and Belgian endive. Mustardy vinaigrette sauce and plenty of garlic turn the leaves into a zesty … Continue reading →

Posted in 3. Salads | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Penne au potiron et aux noix

Posted on November 16, 2018 by Meg

This dish gives an interesting twist to pumpkin that may be of interest as the holidays approach. Yes, I’m thinking Thanksgiving. The combination of pasta and pumpkin is popular in both France and Italy, and the walnuts add depth. This … Continue reading →

Posted in 9. Pasta, Rice, Grains | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Veau braisé aux épices

Posted on November 2, 2018 by Meg

My friend Vera, a superlative cook, served this spicy slow-cooked veal dish on the occasion of her husband’s birthday last year. It was summer, and the birthday dinner was in the garden of their country house in Provence. There were … Continue reading →

Posted in 7. Meat Dishes | Tagged , , , , | 5 Comments