Cuisine: French

Coq Au Vin Blanc

Coq au vin is a classic French dish of chicken that is braised in wine, with bacon, and mushrooms. A red Burgundy wine is typically used, though there are variations in the different regions of France, such as coq au vin jaune, coq au riesling, coq au pourpre or coq au violet, and coq au Champagne. I actually prefer it using white wine. Coq au vin is basically a chicken stew.

By Leslie Blythe

Chicken Paillard

I had this divine Chicken Paillard in the desert last weekend at a French/Japanese fusion restaurant. It was absolutely delicious. Paillard is a French term for a boneless piece of meat that has been pounded thin or butterflied. The process of pounding the meat tenderizes the chicken and it cooks faster with less moisture loss.

By Leslie Blythe

Crêpes Suzette

The other night I told my husband that I wanted something sweet. We didn't have anything, so he said he would make me Crêpes Suzette. I told him that was too much work, but he insisted.

Crêpes Suzette is something you have at a fancy restaurant tableside where it's theatrically flambéed. This recipe is from Jacques Pépin who prepares it mostly in advance when entertaining. He flambés the liquor in front of his dinner guests and pours it over the platter of crêpes while still flaming.

By Leslie Blythe

French Garlic Chicken

Here is an absolutely delicious French Garlic Chicken recipe. It's tender, juicy and enhanced by the subtle flavor of herbes de Provence. I have included two ways to prepare it, one in an Instant Pot and another on the stovetop.

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Coquilles Saint Jacques

Our friend Jeanne invited us to dinner last week and she made Ina's Coquilles Saint Jacques. I have never been a fan of scallops, but that all changed! This was spectacularly good. Scallops in a creamy sauce with just a hit of curry are cooked under a crust of bread crumbs and cheese. The beauty of this recipe is that it can be prepared the day before. Coquille is the French word for shell.

By Leslie Blythe

Gourgères

Gourgères is a baked savory choux pastry made of choux dough mixed with cheese. Basically, they are cheese puffs. My daughter Zoe, went to a book signing for this new book by Rebekah Peppler, Apéritif, Cocktail Hour the French Way. She says the French have perfected the casual, pre-dinner practice of drinks and snacks. I thought Eric and I had perfected that! Anyway, it's a wonderful book and the cheese puffs are great for any party.

By Leslie Blythe

Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a French Provençal stewed vegetable dish, originating in Nice, and sometimes referred to as ratatouille niçoise. Ratatouille is a great way to use up some of your homegrown vegetables.

By Leslie Blythe

Deconstructed Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a French Provençal stewed vegetable dish, originating in Nice, and sometimes referred to as ratatouille niçoise. This Deconstructed Ratatouille is a much fresher take on the classic. The recipe comes from Joy of Kosher.

By Leslie Blythe

French Potato Salad

This French Potato Salad is great for picnics because it does not have mayonnaise. It's tangy, delicious and brightened up with the fresh herbs.

By Leslie Blythe

Croque Monsieur

The Croque Monsieur is a baked or grilled ham and cheese sandwich that is served in many French cafés and bistros. Traditionally made with Brioche-like bread, or with normal butter bread, but with a soft crust, slathered with bechamel sauce and topped with grated cheese. Croque Monsieur is translated as "crunch sir."

By Leslie Blythe