Friday Reads: Mastering the Art of French Eating

Mastering the Art of French Eating by Ann Mah

My trip to France is only a couple of months away and my thoughts are quickly turning to one of my favourite aspects of travel, sampling the local foods. As such, it seemed timely to read Mastering the Art of French Eating: From Paris Bistros to Farmhouse Kitchens, Lessons in Food and Love by Ann Mah. This food memoir details the author's time spent in Paris and her journey to discover the stories behind France's signature regional dishes. 

Chapter 3 explores the region of Brittany and the origins of crêpes, which can be either sweet or savoury. Many of us are familiar with dessert crêpes made with white flour but the savoury variety known as galettes are traditionally made with buckwheat. While in Brittany I hope to enjoy both.

Crepes on the Griddle

Sweet Dessert Crepe

Savoury Galette

In Chapter 9, Mah takes us to Burgundy where the region's Charolais cattle and world famous wines combine in the rich beef stew known as Boeuf Bourguignon. A recipe is included at the end of each chapter for anyone inspired to recreate one of these uniquely French dishes in their own home kitchen.

Boeuf Bourguignon

Charolais Cattle

Burgundy Vineyard

More photos can be seen on my Pinterest board Food & Drink of Europe: French Cuisine.

If you enjoy food and historical fiction I'd also recommend Mah's novel, The Lost Vintage, about a vineyard in Burgundy and the history of the estate's owners dating back to World War II.

The Lost Vintage by Ann Mah

Ann Mah's web site is annmah.net.

Related Posts:
Friday Reads: The Lost Vintage