If you think of prunes as a slightly boring health food, you haven’t tried the pruneau d’Agen. This flavourful slow-dried prune is one of France’s greatest natural delicacies. Read on to find out more about this special fruit and its many uses. Historic roots The Agen prune is a truly historic hybrid. Plums have been…
France is rightly famous for its cheese, but the sheer variety on offer can be perplexing. Which cheese is best for an alfresco picnic? Which is tastiest with a glass of wine? Which will add a luxurious touch to your special dinner? If you’re a fromage novice,…
If you’re a baker, confectioner, or a sweet-toothed gourmand, you’re bound to have heard of Valrhona. This legendary French chocolate manufacturer was recently awarded B Corp status, marking it out as a top performer in terms of environmental and social responsibility. Read on to find out more about Valrhona, and why B Corp certification is…
In the small fishing port of Binic-Étables-sur-Mer, Brittany, there once lived a man called Eugène. He loved fishing, and he loved fish. He also had real culinary flair and a great imagination. Eugène started to invent his own recipes to delight his family and friends, and he soon became known as a local expert in…
Vacherin Mont d’Or: an Alpine Delicacy Rich, gooey and spectacularly flavourful, Vacherin Mont d’Or is the ultimate seasonal treat for cheese-lovers. If you like the sound of this ultra-soft washed-rind cheese, read on to find out when to buy it, how to eat it, and what makes it so good. Special and seasonal French Vacherin…
Passionate bakers agree: if you want to make the best dough, you can’t beat fresh yeast. And L’Hirondelle’s fresh yeast can take your breads, brioches and buns to a whole new level. Read on to find out more about this French classic. Baked-in tradition L’Hirondelle yeast is manufactured by Lesaffre, a true French…
French Specialities from the Home of Cassoulet In the very south of France is the market town of Castelnaudary. Dating back to Roman times, this pretty little town is the birthplace of cassoulet: a traditional casserole with sausages and beans, cooked slowly in a deep earthenware dish. Legend has it that the cassoulet was invented…