Celebrate Spring with a French Twist
With spring's promise in the air, what better place to celebrate than in our kitchens? For inspiration, we look to our French friends, known for their natural Joie de vivre (zest for life). The Thouvenots, who hail from Neuilly sur Seine in France and currently live in Evanston, have discovered many of their favorites away from home. If you too pine for that special joie de vivre, or if you just want to explore some fine French delicacies, here's a gem of a list:
- Reblochon cheese--a delicious cheese from the Alps region of Savoie. The soft, washed-rined cheese is made from raw cow's milk and is well aged with a soft center and nutty flavor that lingers on the tongue. This special cheese is traditionally served with a crusty baguette and a butter lettuce salad dressed with walnut oil, red wine vinegar, salt and Dijon mustard. Available at Whole Foods Market.
- Maille Dijon mustard and Maille gherkins--used as accoutrements with any meal. Can be found at Foodstuff's. Tastybeat Tip: While at Foodstuff's, consider picking up a container of decadent Aloutte creme fraise.
- Baratte butter--a high-quality European butter embedded with sea salt crystals called Fleur De Sel. Try spreading this flavorful treat on a good loaf of bread. You can find Baratte at Treasure Island.
- French Saucisson--a zesty sausage full of flavor and spice. This garlic sausage is made with chicken, pork, milk and cognac that together make a robust flavor. French Saucisson is typically enjoyed warm with a baguette and fresh roasted garlic. You can find it, along with a special selection of outstanding pates, at Schaefer's Market.
- Pineau de Charentes (pictured)--a special aperitif. Pineau de Charentes has a rather unique taste made from a blend of unfermented grape must and cognac brandy. Found at Schaefer's Market.
- Framboisier cake (pictured)--a vanilla cake bursting with a light vanilla cream and topped with fresh raspberries or a raspberry glaze (Tastybeat highly recommends ordering it topped with a layer of fresh raspberries.) Created by Dimitri and Keli Fayard of Vanille Bakery, this cake is a scrumptious treat for your eyes and palette. Be sure to check out Vanille Bakery's wonderful selection of French cakes, pastries, croissants, and of course, macaroons!
Bon Appétît!
Tastybeat
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EVANSTON GLENCOE |
GLENVIEW LAKE FOREST |
Schaefer's Wines, Foods and Spirits
9965 Gross Point Rd
Skokie, IL 60076
P: 847-677-WINE (9463)
Vanille Patisserie
2229 N. Clybourn
Chicago, IL 60614
Tel: 773-868-4574
Fax: 773-868-0648
