The aroma of sizzling ham and the rich, nutty scent of Madeira wine takes me back to my childhood summers in Normandy. My father, a classically trained French chef, would prepare his signature Ham with Madeira Sauce for our family gatherings. It was a dish that bridged the gap between rustic comfort food and haute … Lire plus
The aroma of sizzling pancetta and the gentle simmer of cream transport me back to my childhood kitchen in New Orleans, where my French father would create his own spin on the classic Italian pasta alla carbonara. This French-style carbonara, enriched with velvety crème fraîche, became a staple in our home—a delicious fusion of cultures … Lire plus
Ah, Tortellini alla Panna! The mere mention of this dish transports me back to a cozy trattoria in Bologna, where I first fell in love with this creamy, comforting pasta. The steam rising from the bowl, carrying the intoxicating aroma of Parmigiano-Reggiano and prosciutto, is forever etched in my culinary memory. Today, I’m thrilled to … Lire plus
As I stood in my Chicago kitchen, the aroma of simmering ragù transported me back to a small trattoria in Bologna where I first tasted authentic pappardelle al ragù. The rich, meaty sauce clinging to wide ribbons of pasta was a revelation. Today, I’m excited to share my version of this classic dish, blending traditional … Lire plus
The aroma of melting cheese and the soft glow of candlelight transport me back to a cozy chalet in the French Alps. It was there, nestled in the heart of Savoie, that I first experienced the magic of fondue savoyarde. This isn’t just a dish; it’s a celebration of Alpine culture, a testament to the … Lire plus
The aroma of melting Reblochon cheese and sizzling lardons wafts through my kitchen, transporting me back to a cozy chalet in the French Alps. As I prepare to share my take on the classic Tartiflette, I’m reminded of the first time I encountered this hearty Savoyard dish. It was during a ski trip to Chamonix, … Lire plus
As I stood in my grandmother’s sun-drenched kitchen in the heart of Tuscany, the intoxicating aroma of Stracotto di Manzo filled the air. This rustic Italian beef stew, whose name literally means “overcooked beef,” was simmering away in her well-worn cast iron pot. The rich, tomatoey sauce bubbled gently, promising tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef that would … Lire plus
The gentle aroma of lemon and butter wafts through my kitchen, transporting me back to my childhood summers in Commercy, the birthplace of madeleines. As I watch these delicate French tea cakes rise in the oven, their signature humps forming like magic, I’m reminded of why I fell in love with baking. Today, I’m excited … Lire plus
Ah, Savoy Cabbage Gratin – a dish that transports me back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen in the French countryside. The aroma of slowly braised cabbage mingling with melting cheese would fill the air, promising a comforting meal to come. This humble yet elegant dish has graced tables from rustic farmhouses to Parisian bistros for … Lire plus
The Story Behind Truffle Tagliatelle: A French-American Love Affair The aroma of truffles wafting through my childhood kitchen in New Orleans is a memory that’s etched in my mind. My French father, a classically trained chef, would ceremoniously shave paper-thin slices of black truffle over steaming plates of tagliatelle, while my American mother watched in … Lire plus