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Salade Gesiers de Canard

Published on 2012-05-25 08:38:18

I was in the market this morning to pick up some beef short ribs I had ordered, cut American style. The butcher was right next to Jean Louis, the foie gras man http://cookinginsens.wordpress.com/2012/03/26/grilled-mint-yogurt-lamb-chops/ and he had some nice looking duck gizzards … Continue reading → > read more

Pho, Pho, Pho

Published on 2012-05-24 06:19:11

My favorite thing about pho is the pairing of crunchy vegetable toppings with hot flavorful soup. This was very good. Thanks R.S.! Unfortunately, I was unable to find fresh bean sprouts and had to use a jar of mixed Asian … Continue reading → > read more

Stuffed Pork Filet Mignon with Sauteed Spinach and Roasted Sweet Potato

Published on 2012-05-23 10:50:05

Cruising through the market today looking for thinly sliced sirloin for the Pho http://cookinginsens.wordpress.com/2012/05/23/what-were-having-pho-lunch-tomorrow/ , Jade and I saw this pork filet mignon, stuffed with bacon and goat’s cheese. What could we do? After we purchased the filet, we asked the … Continue reading → > read more

What We’re Having Pho Lunch Tomorrow

Published on 2012-05-23 06:25:24

There is a fantastic site called Ang Sarap http://angsarap.net/, featuring the cuisine of the Phillipines and Asia, that has become one of my favorites. Wonderful recipes and gorgeous photography, I almost always, unless it’s cake, want to eat and/or make whatever … Continue reading → > read more

Lemon and Honey Salmon with Chinese Cabbage

Published on 2012-05-22 07:05:33

It’s been a while since our last salmon fix. Today’s the day! We prefer our salmon skin on, so that’s why it was beyond annoying when I thawed the beautiful salmon fillets from the fish monger and discovered that they … Continue reading → > read more

Pan Roasted Artichokes

Published on 2012-05-20 06:03:53

For the curious, here’s something about me you probably didn’t know; repetitious mention of the word “healthy”, when referring to food preparation and/or consumption brings out the “Rosemary’s Baby” contrarian in me and makes me want to stop reading, heat … Continue reading → > read more

Crispy Pork Belly

Published on 2012-05-19 09:01:58

In the never ending struggle towards crispy skin pork belly, I decided to try the salting method over at Sea Salt with Food http://www.seasaltwithfood.com/2012/05/crispy-roast-pork-belly.html. I’m sure the crispiness has something to do with salt because once back in the day, by accident, … Continue reading → > read more

Bucatini with Meatballs

Published on 2012-05-18 08:43:27

Does it count against me in the “The Game of Freezers” that I took out ground pork and veal to make meatballs, but put in a really irresistible pork belly? It’s not my fault. I was just wandering through the market, looking … Continue reading → > read more

L’Ambiance des Halles: Bouillabaisse Maison

Published on 2012-05-17 07:26:36

L’Ambiance des Halles is my fishmonger. In addition to selling fresh fish and seafood, they have a shellfish bar, small restaurant and seafood platters for take away. Difficult to please when it comes to fish, I usually don’t bother with … Continue reading → > read more

Oven Pork Chops with Sauteed Apples

Published on 2012-05-16 08:43:00

Because I was gallivanting around with Jade this morning, drinking coffee with Jacques, visiting the market and the pharmacy, chatting with M. Parret, I didn’t have much time to think about today’s lunch, so this was fast, easy and good. … Continue reading → > read more

Boudin Noir with Pear and Potato Gratin

Published on 2012-05-15 08:10:56

Today was boudin noir’s turn to come out of the freezer. I was pretty happy about this; our market guy makes the best boudin noir whether mixed with apples or onions or just plain and is hot and ready to … Continue reading → > read more

Tuna Salad

Published on 2012-05-15 00:40:30

This salad should really be called “refrigerator salad” as I put it together with odds and ends from the refrigerator. I just wanted to use my supermarket, green plate for something Tuna Salad Roquette 1/2 can solid tuna in water, … Continue reading → > read more

Villiers-Louis: Deep Country

Published on 2012-05-14 05:59:43

What a nice Mother’s Day! Even though Jade and I were the only ones celebrating Mother’s Day today, we joined our friends Alain and Sophie of Villiers-Louis in a celebration barbecue for Sundays, beautiful weather and open spaces. I call … Continue reading → > read more

Corolles d’Alsace Salad with Tuna

Published on 2012-05-12 10:10:21

Tomorrow, on American Mother’s Day, Jade and I are invited to Villiers-Louis, deep country, for an al fresco lunch and barbecue. Wanting to make a pasta salad to bring, I spent a lot of time in the pasta aisle in … Continue reading → > read more

Poached Egg with Grilled Vegetables

Published on 2012-05-11 04:39:46

One of my neighbors, a die-hard bookophile, visited a village vide grenier this past weekend, finding a first edition, French dictionary printed in 1658! He was so delighted! Vide grenier means to empty the attic and is the French equivalent of a yard … Continue reading → > read more

Herb and Garlic Crusted Pork Roast

Published on 2012-05-10 08:01:36

The little 1 kg or 2 lb pork roasts I find here are perfect when you are not feeding a crowd, but still want to feed 4-6 or 2 with leftovers for sandwiches. I bought 3 of these when they … Continue reading → > read more

Glazed Chicken with Turnip Potato Puree

Published on 2012-05-09 08:38:11

In 1991, we were evacuated from Port Au Prince, Haiti because while the Haitian president was in Washington, D.C., the military decided to call elections; coup d’etat. The U.S. government was seriously P.O.’d and ordered “involuntary departure” for all but … Continue reading → > read more

Tagliatelle with Bacon and Peas

Published on 2012-05-08 05:23:41

The “Game of Freezers” continues with this wonderful pasta made from frozen fresh tagliatelle, frozen peas and frozen bacon. Still working on the freezer in the North(the house) and looking forward to the time I can press on to the … Continue reading → > read more

Buttery Oven Baked Chicken Wings

Published on 2012-05-07 07:56:25

This used to be the only way I would make chicken wings; coated with seasoned flour and baked in butter. The wings are crispy on the outside, juicy and tender inside. After that, if I wanted a sweet sauce, I … Continue reading → > read more

Crab Quiche

Published on 2012-05-06 09:11:25

I found a new plate at the 3 Musketeer grocery store for 2 Euros. You can’t see it, but it’s got a little purple chicken in the center. Cute. That’s why I made this breakfast. And there was that Charolais ground … Continue reading → > read more

Herbed Magret de Canard Salad with Pears and Roquefort Dressing

Published on 2012-05-05 07:03:23

I guess it’s day 6 of Vide Congelateur (empty the the freezer), but it feels like day 20! It’s not that there are not good things to be made from the freezer, it’s just that cooking strictly from what I’ve … Continue reading → > read more

Spicy, Lacquered Sea Bream

Published on 2012-05-04 08:38:36

There were 3 agendas today: 1) Try out my new paella/fish frying pan 2) Move that sea bream in the freezer onward 3) Display the garden fresh radishes given to me by Alain. Done! Spicy, Lacquered Sea Bream 1 … Continue reading → > read more

Fabada My Way: Chorizo, Mouro, Grillaudes and Bean Stew

Published on 2012-05-03 06:05:38

My inspiration for this recipe comes from Marcus at Country Wood Smoke http://countrywoodsmoke.wordpress.com/2012/03/08/smoked-morcilla-and-chorizo-fabada/. I saw this recipe in March and started my search for morcilla or Spanish blood sausage immediately. I didn’t find it but I did find a Portuguese blood … Continue reading → > read more

Cauliflower and Sweet Potato Gratin

Published on 2012-05-01 07:11:04

This vegetable casserole was dictated by the Comte cheese in the freezer and the cauliflower and sweet potato in the refrigerator. I’ve done a gratin like this with romanesco http://cookinginsens.wordpress.com/2012/03/16/empty-cupboard-syndrome-romanesco-and-sweet-potatoes/. This time I decided to skip the bread crumbs and … Continue reading → > read more

Smoked and Spicy Travers du Porc with Coleslaw

Published on 2012-04-30 07:30:37

I cleaned out the refrigerators yesterday and had to admit that I was in freezer trouble again. Whenever I say freezer trouble, I think about one of this family’s favorite books, “Grandmaster” http://www.amazon.com/Grandmaster-Penzler-Presents-Warren-Murphy/dp/0765311631/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1335769343&sr=8-2. It is a novel about a chess … Continue reading → > read more

Fish Tournedos with Spring Vegetables

Published on 2012-04-29 08:16:17

Still doing this month’s issue of Saveur, I decided to attempt a fiddly recipe of fish tournedos with spring vegetables. If you can’t be bothered, I understand, just look at the pictures and imagine the taste I used a hake … Continue reading → > read more

Lemon Chicken with Herbs

Published on 2012-04-28 08:03:00

I found this marvelous recipe in this month’s French Saveur magazine. Lots of good things inside this issue that I would like to cook. I did object to a few things in the recipe involving ingredients (Hello! Garlic, people!) and … Continue reading → > read more

Wild Mediterranean Oysters with Lime Mayonnaise

Published on 2012-04-27 08:17:23

Last night I had a hard time getting to sleep. Something kept saying, “Hello! Fish!” I think my body was rebelling against the hearty, meaty diet I sustained in Alsace. In any case, it was a day to make a visit to … Continue reading → > read more

Alsace: Taking the Zen Train

Published on 2012-04-26 07:56:30

Jesus, Mary, Joseph and all the Saints! I erased about 300 photos of the Alsace trip from my memory card. I don’t know how I got them back but they’re back. Must have been all that prayer. After 3o odd … Continue reading → > read more

No New Thing Under The Sun

Published on 2012-04-22 07:17:53

“The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.” King James Bible. Jade and I had an interesting conversation about originality in cooking. She seemed to … Continue reading → > read more

Foie de Veau with Canada Apples, Bacon and Onions

Published on 2012-04-21 08:17:33

As I’m sure I’ve mentioned before, I have no idea what a “cooking apple” is, except for maybe Granny Smiths. I don’t feel bad about this but I decided to vaguely inform myself by asking at the market fruit stand. The … Continue reading → > read more

Lumpiang Hubad

Published on 2012-04-20 08:29:23

Well Jade’s back from her class trip to London and I’m back to blogging. I really didn’t feel like food blogging meals for one, so I took the opportunity to find my voice for the cookbook I’m writing. Mission accomplished! … Continue reading → > read more

M. Parret Does Rabbit

Published on 2012-04-16 11:44:04

Unfortunately, our neighbor Mme Parret has had an uncomfortable year as far as her health is concerned which has interfered with her ability to make those marvelous, daily, multicourse lunches that she is famous for. Unwilling to totally give up … Continue reading → > read more

Honey Mustard Roasted Duck Legs with Pears

Published on 2012-04-15 06:33:23

I saw one of my older posts on another site, maybe pinterest? Anyway, it was honey mustard chicken with sweet potatoes http://cookinginsens.wordpress.com/2011/10/04/honey-mustard-chicken-and-sweet-potatoes/ and I thought it was high time for some honey mustard something! I didn’t have chicken or sweet potatoes, but … Continue reading → > read more

The Perfect Fish Cake with Homemade Tartar Sauce

Published on 2012-04-13 11:22:07

For my entire cooking and eating life I have been searching for the perfect fish cake. True, I have found them from time to time in certain restaurants, but I have never succeeded in making them at home to please … Continue reading → > read more

Lentil Chili Stuffed Zucchini and Piperade Peppers

Published on 2012-04-12 07:09:38

The incredibly cute, round, baby zucchinis are in the market. These are the very tiny ones as opposed to the softball size. During the same foray, I saw some long, green poivrons (bell peppers) that I was unfamiliar with and … Continue reading → > read more

Oven Barbecued Chicken with Cauliflower Gratin

Published on 2012-04-11 08:55:28

As I’ve mentioned before, I’m waiting for my husband to come home to “Spring-ize” my grills. Word has it that it might be next month. Until then it’s oven, stove top smoking or broiler. A girl has got to … Continue reading → > read more

Tournedos with Roquefort Sauce

Published on 2012-04-10 07:46:15

Before I get to the tournedos, I know Roger will want to know what I did for Easter Well, I had a few friends over for a rolled and stuffed lamb roast and to assist me in breaking my Lenten … Continue reading → > read more

Panna Cotta with Strawberry Coulis

Published on 2012-04-07 09:02:44

Tomorrow I’ve invited a few people over for lunch and thought I’d get a head start on the strawberry panna cotta. The white chocolate base is perfect with this fresh, gariguette strawberry coulis. My kind of dessert; easy and do … Continue reading → > read more

Rachel Khoo’s Omelette Souffle with Basque Piperade

Published on 2012-04-06 09:04:55

If you have ever questioned that old adage (which I have) “You get what you pay for”, here’s living proof that that is SO wrong! At least some of the time. I’m talking about my new Le Creuset skillet and Frugal’s … Continue reading → > read more

Muffuletta Sandwich: The Original Manwich

Published on 2012-04-05 08:21:01

I baked. What was I thinking of? One minute I’m chatting with fellow blogger, Kay http://myhomecookedmeals.blogspot.fr/ about the olive salad for muffuletta sandwiches and the next, I’m on my way to buy bread flour. Mind snatched again! This has got to … Continue reading → > read more

Central Grocery Olive Salad

Published on 2012-04-04 08:10:55

For over a year now, Jade has been asking me to make muffuletta sandwiches again. The muffuletta and olive salad was made famous in America by the Central Grocery, located in the heart of New Orleans. The sandwich takes it’s … Continue reading → > read more

Warm Potato and Apple Salad with Boudin Noir

Published on 2012-04-03 06:13:36

Artisanal boudin noir, black pudding or blood sausage, whatever you call it, in whatever country, is true gourmet dining! I know that Chef Dave http://www.therootertothetooter.com/ would agree with me. I’m a Rachel Khoo wanna be. Her new cookbook, “The Little Paris … Continue reading → > read more

Duck Breast with Mango Sauce

Published on 2012-04-02 09:29:44

Since meeting Jean-Louis, I’ve been thinking of duck products with cherry or mango sauce. Today I defrosted a duck breast and cobbled together this mango glaze sauce. Duck Breast with Mango Sauce 1 mango, pureed 1/4 cup soy sauce 2 … Continue reading → > read more

Deep Fried Sardines

Published on 2012-04-01 08:16:57

Lately, I’m been going all nostalgic for fried smelts. My Dad would buy huge bags of these tasty babies and fry enough of them to satisfy everyone. Although my Mom was the primary cook in the family, my father was … Continue reading → > read more

Guinea Fowl Supreme with Roquefort and Spinach

Published on 2012-03-31 08:39:35

Surprisingly, I knew about guinea fowl before I came to France. My father loved them and would cook the birds at least once a year. I don’t know where he bought them but they were good. The decorative leaf on the … Continue reading → > read more

Beetroot Tiramisu with Pesto Croutons

Published on 2012-03-30 11:13:34

Talk about gadding about, today I guess I had time on my hands. I began this morning with the obligatory dog walk, visited both the open market and local 7-11, had my hair done, made my tiramisu and took photos, went to … Continue reading → > read more

Crispy Mustard Rabbit Legs

Published on 2012-03-29 08:12:40

I got a new cookbook called “The Little Paris Kitchen” by Rachel Khoo and was pretty excited about making her recipe for rabbit legs until I saw Frugal’s skillet http://frugalfeeding.wordpress.com/2012/03/29/gujarati-curried-chicken/. I was practically knocked to the floor by a huge, acquisitive, … Continue reading → > read more

Jamie’s Fabulous Fish Pie

Published on 2012-03-28 07:17:28

I’m having lighting issues again. During the dull and dreary winter, the light shining on my photography table was perfect; soft and bright. Now that the weather is sunny, I’m getting a harsh glare that is driving me insane. Today, … Continue reading → > read more

Tarragon Pork Steaks

Published on 2012-03-27 08:37:32

I found some ridiculously large pork steaks on sale. The French cut is “echine de porc” and I immediately thought, “This is a job for super tajine”. On the same shopping trip, I stopped by the local nursery and bought a … Continue reading → > read more

Grilled Mint Yogurt Lamb Chops

Published on 2012-03-26 04:30:18

As there is the South and the Deep South, there also exists the Country and the Deep Country. This Sunday we left our country town of Sens, 40,000 inhabitants, to attend a barbecue in Villiers-Louis, population 449, deep country. Our host … Continue reading → > read more

“Tapping” at Le Patio and Reggae Time at Tete de Veau

Published on 2012-03-25 11:50:23

Sens, France is a small town of 40,000 people(if you count the outlying areas) in the Burgundy region of France. The town inhabitants “go down” with the sun or, at least, to their homes for a little TV and a … Continue reading → > read more

Pan Fried Cod with Beet Salsa

Published on 2012-03-24 10:20:30

The French never cease to fascinate me; they have peeled and cooked beets in the fresh vegetable section of their supermarkets. A lot of them, which means people are buying them. Mind snatched again I, no beet lover, bought some … Continue reading → > read more

Traditional Oeufs en Meurette from Burgundy

Published on 2012-03-23 00:59:08

Wine poached eggs in a nest of mushrooms and bacon on toast. De-ca-dent, Frugal, de-ca-dent I admit, I almost balked at the full two bottles of red wine needed for this recipe. Unfortunately, I didn’t have any vin de table in the … Continue reading → > read more

Grazing: Skagen and Salade Rouge

Published on 2012-03-22 00:25:47

As it warms up and the fruits and vegetables come to the market in there Sunday Go To Meeting clothes, my thoughts turn to lighter dining fare. Good ole Jamie’s March/April issue has a number of recipes from Sweden, including … Continue reading → > read more

Smoked Duck, Spinach and Noodle Soup

Published on 2012-03-21 01:18:06

My inspiration for this soup comes from the Smoky Wok blog. Her Chinese Leeks with Waxed Duck Stir-fry really caught my eye http://www.smokywok.com/2012/03/chinese-leeks-with-waxed-duck-stir-fry.html, but as I only had smoked duck and French leeks, I decided to take the freezing rain into … Continue reading → > read more

Strawberry Sunday

Published on 2012-03-19 00:52:28

After a sweet morning at the Sens Chocolate Salon http://cookinginsens.wordpress.com/2012/03/18/chocolate-salon-sens-france-2012/, I decided to do something with the fabulous Spanish strawberries I found in the market. We were wondering if you could make a crumble with strawberries. Well, yes you can. These … Continue reading → > read more

Chocolate Salon Sens, France 2012

Published on 2012-03-18 08:40:03

Today was Sens’ annual chocolate salon and even though Jade has given up chocolate for Lent, there was no way she was missing it! I told her that I had read somewhere that you could take Sundays off if you … Continue reading → > read more

Irish Beef Stew with Colcannon

Published on 2012-03-17 08:31:41

Other than Christmas, I haven’t really been blogging the holidays. I guess I just couldn’t be bothered But today, because this is my husband’s favorite holiday (He’s Irish American on both sides and owns an Irish passport) and he’s living … Continue reading → > read more

Mesquite and Tea Smoked Duck Salad

Published on 2012-03-13 09:34:44

I was wandering around the garage, looking for some saran wrap when I happened upon my stove top smoker. These are really great when you have a small amount to smoke and you just can’t be bothered to rev up the big … Continue reading → > read more

Matar Paneer

Published on 2012-03-11 10:51:36

When we lived in Bangladesh, all foreign diplomats were housed in 2 designated enclaves, D.I.T. 1 and D.I.T. 2. I forget what the initials stood for. Most of the Asian restaurants were in these areas; Thai, Korean, Chinese, Vietnamese … Continue reading → > read more

Char Sui Chicken

Published on 2012-03-10 00:30:11

Don’t you just love the new “views by country” stats at wordpress? 5 people from Poland looked at my blog today and 5 from Hungary! Welcome Polish people! Dzień dobry! Welcome Hungarian people! Üdvözlünk! Anyway, when we first married, my husband … Continue reading → > read more

Thai Sea Bream with Udon Noodles

Published on 2012-03-09 00:22:30

I’ve made this plate before with dorade royale or French sea bream and it was just as good or maybe better than the last time. Pretty much, you can’t go wrong with fresh, correctly cooked fish. Today I had my … Continue reading → > read more

Pear and Apple Crumble

Published on 2012-03-08 02:27:17

We had 4 really juicy pears and one apple in the fruit bowl. Yes, we could have bought more apples but we liked the idea of that little taste of apple among the pears. Look at the swankiness of those … Continue reading → > read more

Frugal Veal Cottage Pie

Published on 2012-03-07 07:39:27

I woke up this morning thinking that Jade and I would swing by the fishmonger to see what we could find for today’s lunch/dinner. But when I looked in the refrigerator, I couldn’t help but notice yesterday’s leftover veal roast … Continue reading → > read more

Veal Roast with Peppers

Published on 2012-03-06 07:15:44

After New Year’s there was a sale on small veal roasts. Such a deal that I bought two of them. In the market I found some nice peppers and thought I would go for a rustic tajine of veal, peppers … Continue reading → > read more

Texas Ribs and Potato Salad

Published on 2012-03-05 05:08:37

One of my boys came to see me this weekend, Master Sergeant John Alen, U.S. Marine Corps with his bride of 5 months, Natalie Alen. John was commanding gunnery sergeant (Gunny) for the Marine corps detachment tasked with guarding the … Continue reading → > read more

Bacon, Spinach and Feta Frittata

Published on 2012-03-02 07:04:15

I was really excited about my version of the frittata that I saw over at the Irish Food Board(Bord Bia)http://www.bordbia.ie/aboutfood/recipes/eggs/pages/italianfrittata.aspx until I saw Roger Stowell’s blog post today http://stowell.wordpress.com/2012/03/02/bring-back-the-birch/. Here I am “cooking cute” and taking pictures of omelettes, while he’s over … Continue reading → > read more

Japanese Chicken Wings

Published on 2012-03-01 06:49:31

I don’t understand why, but bulk chicken wings are difficult to find in the supermarkets. The French must have some sort of “chicken wing terrine” that gobbles up all the available chicken wings but only seasonally ”Not the chicken wing … Continue reading → > read more

Linguini with Mushrooms, Parmesan and Serrano Ham

Published on 2012-02-29 06:34:35

This recipe was inspired by my refrigerator and Jamie Oliver. Yes, I over bought mushrooms again. I can’t help it, they looked good. I’ve still got the bizarre comment problem and am waiting for a solution from wordpress support. Hello!? … Continue reading → > read more

Crispy Veal Sweetbreads with Roquefort Dressing

Published on 2012-02-28 06:35:56

The first time I worked with sweetbreads I was very nervous but determined to attempt something outside of my area of expertise. When I made Dave’s Sweetbread Terrine http://cookinginsens.wordpress.com/2011/04/30/i-poached-daves-sweetbread-terrine/, I couldn’t get veal sweetbreads so I settled for lamb sweetbreads … Continue reading → > read more

Duck Breast in Red Wine Sauce with Two Mushrooms

Published on 2012-02-26 11:11:10

Duck breasts were on sale at Leclerc in packs of 3. I bought 2 packs for the freezer I can’t seem to comment on others’ posts. I can like them but my comments don’t come through. Does anyone know what’s … Continue reading → > read more

Mussels and Almandes de Mer

Published on 2012-02-25 08:55:07

Well he’s going back to Southern Sudan, so I thought I’d pull out all stops. No seafood to be had from the Nile river. And anyway, I’ve been wanting to do something with these clam-like almandes de mer . We … Continue reading → > read more

Proscuitto Wrapped Pork Loin

Published on 2012-02-23 11:27:19

We bought our first house about 3 miles down the same road from my husband’s parents’ house in the New York Catskills. Beautiful house, wooded on about 3 acres, deer and the occasional bear passing through. We decided not to rent it … Continue reading → > read more

Veal Chops Smothered in Onions and Grilled Peppers

Published on 2012-02-21 01:57:33

This is a quick and easy dish I put together using one of my stove top tajines. A skillet with a cover would work as well. Veal Chops Smothered in Onions and Grilled Peppers 4 veal chops Salt and pepper … Continue reading → > read more

Jamie’s Fish, Chips and Mushy Peas

Published on 2012-02-19 07:07:06

This morning Daisy at Cool Cook Style http://coolcookstyle.com/ informed me that my blog had been featured at What’s Cook In http://www.whatscook.in/articles/what-weve-been-reading-3091/. Mah-velous! Thank you Daisy. Thank you What’s Cook In! Okay, one more Jamie from the budget issue. Only 1 pound 19 … Continue reading → > read more

Roasted Pork Belly

Published on 2012-02-17 12:28:07

I went to the market today to get a 2.5 kilo (about 5 lbs) pork belly so that I could make Jamie’s crispy, budget pork belly(under 2 pounds per serving, Frugal). But to my dismay, they only had small … Continue reading → > read more

Roasted Fennel, Red Pepper and Onion

Published on 2012-02-16 22:58:14

This roasted red pepper, fennel and onion casserole with optional bacon makes a satisfying light lunch, especially if you’ve had a large breakfast Quick and easy with crisp, tender roasted vegetables, the casserole is also perfect as a side dish … Continue reading → > read more

Rib Steak and Eggs

Published on 2012-02-16 04:01:49

Steak and eggs for breakfast reminds me of all night diners in the wee hours of the morning. They don’t have those in France. Bummer. Somebody should open up a breakfast restaurant here, not chain. Or build a 5 star … Continue reading → > read more

Jamie’s Cullen Skink with Mussels

Published on 2012-02-15 05:55:56

� The new Jamie magazine is billed as the “budget issue”(February 12, Issue 26). Frugal, go out and buy this, it can’t be that expensive and you are going to love it! The front cover says, “Packed with brilliant and thrifty ideas … Continue reading → > read more

Duck Breast with Sweet Potato Hash Browns

Published on 2012-02-14 01:03:22

This was really supposed to be duck breast with a sweet potato rosti, or so the people at BBC said http://www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/roastduckwithsweetpo_84214. I have to say, it tasted very good but I think they should have included eggs or something else besides corn starch … Continue reading → > read more

Chicken Korma

Published on 2012-02-13 00:37:16

I’d forgotten about chicken korma until I visited one of my favorite sites Rasamalaysia http://rasamalaysia.com/chicken-korma/2/. This is a wonderful Indian recipe and I can’t believe that I didn’t remember it. So many good things to eat and so little time! I … Continue reading → > read more

English Toffee

Published on 2012-02-12 04:18:18

I’m not a big sweets eater. I think it was childhood overload. My parents always had a lot of parties, and when the guests arrived they would always bring cookies, Hostess cupcakes, Twinkies, candies and soft drinks for us. I’m … Continue reading → > read more

Tagliatelle, Pancetta, Tomatoes and Ricotta

Published on 2012-02-11 08:51:00

Cruising the net, I saw a recipe for pasta http://www.paperblog.fr/3277615/pappardelle-sauce-tomate-et-ricotta-jambon-cru-roquette/that used something called caviar of tomatoes and garlic. Intrigued, I bought some from the supermarket for future scrutiny. Today, with no firm plans but having fresh tagliatelle and an outrageous … Continue reading → > read more

A Little Breakfast: Quail Eggs on Toast

Published on 2012-02-10 02:47:52

Not very hungry this morning but feeling playful, I thought I would have a little breakfast. I had some quail eggs and a little pork roast that I got from the traiteur, about the size of a ham hock. The … Continue reading → > read more

Pappardelle with Roquette and Walnut Pesto

Published on 2012-02-09 08:21:57

I love it that you can buy fresh pasta from the supermarket. In the 70s when I was in Les Cayes, Haiti, the only way I could have lasagna noodles was to make them, and all I had was a … Continue reading → > read more

4th of July Washington, D.C.

Published on 2011-07-05 08:59:58

I made these baby back ribs in our hotel suite. Not at all the same as on the grill but still they were baby backs. The potato salad was Safeway brand; the family complained. Gourmet whiners. We grabbed … Continue reading → > read more

Mini Brie Cheese en Croute with Cherry Sauce

Published on 2011-07-01 09:30:56

I was reading Kay’s blog about having appetizers and cocktails on the beach. http://myhomecookedmeals.blogspot.com/ She does a superb clam dip. If you are thinking of your mother’s clam dip, stop right there. Kay’s clam dip > read more

Lamb Chops with Mint Yogurt Sauce

Published on 2011-06-29 09:55:05

One of my favorite meats is lamb. The grass-fed lamb from New Zealand has a sweet, wild taste that sets it apart from it’s grain-fed cousins. The difference in taste and texture could be compared to the difference between, … Continue > read more

Tacos Carnitas with Salsa and Guacamole

Published on 2011-06-28 15:56:49

Mexican pork carnitas are very easy to make. It’s just a matter of boiling pieces of pork until the water has evaporated, and then browning the pieces in the fat that has been rendered by the boiling. ”Nickel”! as they … > read more

BBQ Chicken with Bacon, Corn, Hominy and Tomato Salad

Published on 2011-06-28 01:15:23

Two day heat wave today and tomorrow, 97 degrees. Why is it, when it’s so hot outside, we decide to increase the heat by lighting a fire to cook our food? It’s a mystery. The bacon, corn, hominy and … Continue reading → > read more

Peach Melba Sunday

Published on 2011-06-26 09:20:23

I think it was in the 60s-70s when peach melba was the epitome of dessert elegance, along with crepes suzette. We seemed to be experiencing a mini-love affair with the French. Jacques Brel English remakes were on the radio and … Continue re > read more

Catfish Salad Meli-Melo

Published on 2011-06-25 11:07:30

I’ve discovered, you’ll like this Dave, the French equivalent of catfish; pangasius. I spotted these fillets in the fish bins of Carrefour and didn’t know what they were, but they looked good and were on sale. The Wikipedia s > read more

Foie de Veau aux Peches

Published on 2011-06-24 07:34:59

You guessed it, liver again. The French sounds so much more elegant and I can trap the liver haters into looking. Gotcha Calf’s Liver with Peaches. This is soooo good people. Shallots and ham strips are sauteed in butter … Contin > read more

Mushroom Ragout

Published on 2011-06-23 08:46:15

Chores today(I hate that). Also I need to start preparing for our trip to the U.S. to see my darlin’ sworn in as the first USAID Mission Director for Southern Sudan. So proud! Still, one must eat. I’m going … Continue reading & > read more

Double “Egg” Benedict with Tomato Pesto

Published on 2011-06-22 08:45:47

Once in Niger, we hosted a small brunch for friends. The brunch included Eggs Benedict on top of breaded eggplant rounds(English muffins were not available) with hollandaise and tomato pesto sauces, homemade breakfast sausage links, fruit salad and > read more

Pork Chops and Traditional Ratatouille

Published on 2011-06-21 08:09:29

I was discussing ratatouille the other day with a neighbor and she definitely had her ideas about what ratatouille was and wasn’t. Sort of like me with potato salad. Interested, I betook myself to my French cookbooks and google.fr. … C > read more

Steak and Kidney Salad

Published on 2011-06-20 10:21:05

Jade has been mentioning the steak and kidney pies I made in March: http://cookinginsens.wordpress.com/2011/03/14/steak-and-kidney-pie/, not because she wanted the pies again but she really liked the taste of the steak and kidney fried, before I put > read more

Almost Father’s Day Barbecue

Published on 2011-06-18 22:52:48

Well, dear old Dad has to be in Washington, D.C. on Monday and as he had to travel on Sunday, we celebrated Father’s Day on Saturday with barbecued lamb ribs, seasoned veal cutlets, Japanese potato salad, and beans. The ribs … Continue re > read more

Hotel du Nord, Paris and Sens, Burgundy

Published on 2011-06-17 01:35:28

Have I mentioned that I love going to Paris? Number one, our son is there. Number two, it’s Paris. Paris has everything; shopping, architecture, food, people, art and wine. It’s fun. Gastronomic And just plain interesting. Take th > read more

Spiral Cut Glazed Ham and Tartiflette

Published on 2011-06-15 01:02:02

Spiral cut ham. What’s not to love? My husband brought this from our freezer in Senegal. He carried this in his suitcase from Washington, D.C. to Senegal and, when he packed out, to France. None the worse for … Continue reading > read more

Of Cherry Mousse and Pie

Published on 2011-06-14 15:27:51

I grew up eating Bing cherries in California. Because they are grown there, my father could buy a case of picked, juicy cherries straight from the orchard for about two dollars. Talk about orgies, we would eat and eat and … Continue reading > read more

Salmon with Avocado Salsa

Published on 2011-06-13 14:25:28

For some reason, I’m on a salsa/chutney kick; pear salsa, cherry salsa, avocado salsa, pear and tomato chutney, etc. It must have something to do with a craving for spicy, uncooked fruit and vegetables. And of course there’s my unending > read more

Somen Noodles with Shrimp and Pork Belly

Published on 2011-06-12 13:10:57

The Japanese have so many interesting noodles. And for me, the noodle fiend, I could eat some every day. Today, after a busy time of visiting neighbors, attending the flea market and working out some things with my husband, … Continue read > read more

Hot Links!

Published on 2011-06-10 11:56:19

I remember as a kid going to fairs in California and buying deep fried pork hot links on Wonderbread with lots of bright yellow mustard. My husband remembers the same delicacy in East Texas when he was in college. It’s … Continue read > read more

New and Improved Pork n Beans

Published on 2011-06-08 15:07:22

Pretty busy day. My daughter had to go to the hair salon, I needed to find a really cheap replacement for her 3rd lost phone and do some shopping before my husband and son arrive on Friday. I … Continue reading → > read more

Yakisoba, Japanese Fast Food

Published on 2011-06-07 13:38:08

I suppose I’m not so much of a Wagamama addict, as a Asian noodle addict. Every time I see a bowl of noodles, especially with soup, I want some. This might have it’s roots in our visit to People’s Republic … Continue readi > read more

Stuffed Baby Zucchini and French Heirloom Tomatoes

Published on 2011-06-06 20:21:38

I really love round zucchini and now that the market is full of baby, round zucchini, I just knew I was going to have to do something with them. My French edition of Saveur magazine had a beautiful recipe for … Continue reading → > read more

Les Moules Belle Epoque

Published on 2011-06-06 00:54:16

Whenever visiting France, mussels were always on my “must eat before I go home” list. We spent a winter one summer in St. Malo, Brittany and the strong, cold winds from the sea sharpened our appetites for the famous seafood … Co > read more

Saltimbocca, an Italian-Irish Recipe, in the land of the French

Published on 2011-06-04 10:46:52

Today I cooked with the Irish, who were cooking Italian. I received a brochure in the mail a few days ago, encouraging the French to buy Irish beef. Included in the brochure were lots of recipes and I … Continue reading → > read more

Scalloped Potatoes in Bacon Cups

Published on 2011-06-03 13:30:52

I decided to cook with the French today and found a recipe that I thought would be interesting; grilled veal with mushrooms, shallot compote and scalloped potatoes in bacon cups. That sounded fine and it was. I especially liked … Continue re > read more

Jade’s Rustic Apricot Jam Glazed Peach Pie

Published on 2011-06-03 00:06:22

Jade’s peach pie is something you might need to have on your picnics this summer; scrumptious crust, light custard with sour cream and an apricot glaze with a hint of orange marmalade. I liked it. Jade chose whipped cream but … Contin > read more

White Asparagus and Leek Flan

Published on 2011-06-02 06:13:06

Okay, I’ve been avoiding the white asparagus because I’d never cooked them before. I remember the Ambassador’s wife, Claire, in Niger bringing these from France for a special dinner that included a white chocolate mousse. > read more

Mexican-Like Chicken Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Published on 2011-06-01 13:05:56

In the late 70s/early 80s, there was a restaurant in Dallas called either the Baked Potato or the Stuffed Potato, I don’t remember exactly. But they served 1 lb baked potatoes with a choice of stuffings; traditional, shish kebab, broccoli & > read more

Grilled Chicken with Cherry Salsa for Donald

Published on 2011-05-31 07:37:59

Donald P. is an old friend of mine. Meaning that I’ve known him for over 30 years, and he’s old Poor thing, his doctor told him that he could no longer continue to eat “high on the hog”, … Continue reading → > read more

Capitaine: Nile Perch with Twice Cooked Yams

Published on 2011-05-29 09:19:26

When my husband was in the Peace Corps, he recalls seeing them pull a Capitaine/Nile perch from the Niger river that was the size of a man! No more. The river is not what it used to be and with … Continue reading → > read more

Sauteed Foie Gras sur Brioche with Cherry Sauce

Published on 2011-05-28 08:25:22

Well it’s the beginning of the cherry season and my thoughts turn to La Madeleine. It was at this 2 star Michelin restaurant here in Sens, that I had a hot appetizer of sauteed foie gras with cherry sauce. Patrick … Continue reading > read more

Soba Noodle Soup

Published on 2011-05-26 10:53:21

If you have been craving slurp-able Japanese noodle soup, today is the day! Boy howdy, this was really good! I had no idea what I was doing, until I had done it. I believe it was the soaking … Continue reading → > read more

Strawberry Mousse

Published on 2011-05-25 08:03:23

Jade’s off from school today so it was a good day to make dessert. Totally influenced by the market, we decided to go with the strawberries again. We again chose the Gariguette variety which is handsome, packed with … Continue readi > read more

Roasted Duck Legs with Wine Sauce, Shallots and Celeriac

Published on 2011-05-24 07:12:18

What I wanted to serve with the duck legs was yams but I neglected to go to the market yesterday. Luckily, I found this moon rock-looking celeriac in the Carrefour City and since I like celeriac, I was good … Continue reading → > read more

Deep Fried Salmon with Creole Remoulade

Published on 2011-05-22 07:52:36

I know this is almost sacrilegious, saying salmon and deep fried in the same sentence but I needed an excuse to fry something with panko again (the oysters were not enough) and to use Dave’s Creole Remoulade sauce. If you … Continue rea > read more

Oysters Two Ways: Kaki Furai and Baked with Garlic and Parsley

Published on 2011-05-21 10:53:07

I’ve been dreaming of my mother’s fried oysters. I just didn’t want to shuck any oysters. There’s plenty of them in the open market, supermarket and in the new fish market across the street from the open market. … > read more

Goma-ae Sesame and Spinach Salad

Published on 2011-05-20 06:03:55

Japan Centre, a Japanese supply on line store, sent me an e-mail last night with this recipe. I didn’t intend to post today but I like spinach and the recipe was interesting, so I decided to just make the spinach, … Continue reading ͛ > read more

Griot with Sauce Ti Malice

Published on 2011-05-19 11:06:21

“Two men, Ti-Malice and Bouki, are good friends. Bouki is gullible, while Ti-Malice is a prankster and more astute. Ti-Malice has meat for lunch everyday and Bouki just so happens to show up at Ti-Malice’s house every day around lunch > read more

Jade’s Dessert Day

Published on 2011-05-19 02:06:25

Jade has the kind of body that skinny jeans were made for but some days she eats like a truck driver whose second job is in a cotton field. Yesterday was one of those days. For breakfast she had the … Continue reading → > read more

Haitian Poulet Creole with Pikliz

Published on 2011-05-18 11:34:53

There’s something about these colors that make you want to go to a bar, order a “demi” bottle of Barbancourt and dance the meringue with a really old guy. Instead, I decided to make poulet creole and pikliz. Pikliz is … Contin > read more

Lamb Chops with Spinach and Genovese Pesto

Published on 2011-05-17 10:34:25

Leclerc supermarket is showcasing Italian products, including two different kinds of prepared pesto; tomato and basil. I usually like to make my own pesto but I’m also a sucker for imported foods, so I bought one of each. Make … Cont > read more

Lazy Day Oven Roasted Spareribs

Published on 2011-05-17 00:35:45

I had a couple of quarter slabs of spareribs in the freezer; I think I must have cut them from a pork belly. I thought I’d do something easy for Jade’s dinner. I rubbed the pieces with Emeril’s essence; … Continue reading > read more

Pita Veal Burger with Pear and Tomato Chutney

Published on 2011-05-16 00:18:08

About a week ago, I started thinking about the water buffalo burger I had in Darjeeling, India. It was delicious and was topped with a spicy mint chutney. I should have had two because we never returned to … Continue reading → > read more

Miniature Strawberry Cheesecakes

Published on 2011-05-15 06:02:35

Strawberries are all over the market here in Sens. Seeing them, I remembered that way back in the day, I used to make miniature cheesecakes from a recipe I found in Fanny Farmer. I have many editions of … Continue reading → > read more

Veal Kidneys Parmentier with Port and Mushrooms

Published on 2011-05-13 09:41:53

Where would French cuisine be today without the influence of Antoine-Augustin Parmentier? Probably potato-less and less imaginative. There are a plethora of dishes in France prepared “Parmentier”; boudin, cabillaud, shrimp, ground > read more

Gingerbread Mini Loaves with Strawberry Butter

Published on 2011-05-12 03:35:33

We found some beautiful, flavorful strawberries in the market today. And Jade was elated and a little hyper because I was making dessert. This is our gingerbread strawberry shortcake fantasy that she ate immediately after the picture was taken. &# > read more

File Gumbo Light

Published on 2011-05-11 08:36:27

In our family, gumbo was chicken, shrimp, sausage, crab bodies and file, period. No okra. Light on the rice. There was really no big brouhaha about the roux. You made a gravy base; no big deal, gravy was … Continue reading → > read more

Crispy Fried Pork Belly, Chicken and Noodle Salad

Published on 2011-05-10 08:10:35

Remember the crispy fried pork belly? http://cookinginsens.wordpress.com/2011/02/26/indochine-kitchens-crispy-fried-pork-belly/ I’ve been thinking about it a lot because I didn’t get it quite right. It tasted good but it wasn’ > read more

Le Pique-Nique

Published on 2011-05-09 00:15:19

In the town of Sens monthly magazine, they advertised a picnic for May 8th at 12:00. Supposedly they would set up tables and barbecue pits for the community on the promenade that encircles the town. I was pretty excited because … Contin > read more

My New Camera’s Body

Published on 2011-05-08 04:23:00

A couple of month’s after I started my blog I realized that my food photos, while pleasing family, friends and myself, were not what they could be. Looking at the photos on Food Porn Daily and Taste Spotting, I … Continue reading ͛ > read more

Chicken Lollipops

Published on 2011-05-07 11:35:27

I made these for the picnic tomorrow. The city is setting up tables and barbecue pits all around the promenade. You bring your picnic lunch and enjoy an al fresco meal. Chicken lollipops are Indian cuisine that has … Continue reading U > read more

Lemon Honey Salmon

Published on 2011-05-06 12:11:39

Salmon is wonderful, salmon on the grill is fantastic and salmon with roasted asparagus is gourmet. This is an easy, elegant, palate pleasing plate. The salmon is marinated and basted in lemon, honey and butter. The same mixture, … Co > read more

Rabbit Paupiettes with Polenta

Published on 2011-05-05 12:00:16

I bought these rabbit paupiettes or bundles at the traiteur/butcher already baconed and tied. Some of you will probably want to make your own, like old pioneer Dave, but you can also ask your butcher to do this. Once … Continue reading > read more

A Tale of Two Sandwiches

Published on 2011-05-04 14:42:21

Since I saw that 101 sandwiches article last week, I’ve been sort of obsessing on sandwiches. I don’t know why, it’s not really my usual thing. But my husband likes sandwiches. So…. Decades ago I was reading a … > read more

Pecan Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes

Published on 2011-05-03 10:03:23

This morning Jose brought me some cut flowers that he had pruned in yards around town. Super nice and thoughtful of him. Maybe it was the pork roast I gave him yesterday But what I was thinking about while making … Continue reading → > read more

Honey Mustard Pork Rib Roast with Pear Salsa

Published on 2011-05-02 12:14:17

Off flame cooking I was just reliving the standing prime rib roast we had the other day and was regretting that I didn’t get a picture of it as it came out of the oven; guests and other preoccupations. I … Continue reading → > read more

Texican Pozole

Published on 2011-05-01 08:03:56

I’ve been wanting to make this for a while. I just didn’t know where my canned hominy was. Found it just in time for Cinco de Mayo. Hominy is corn that has been treated with lye or … Continue reading → > read more

Jade’s Little Skillet

Published on 2011-05-01 01:52:00

The town of Sens has been taken over for the annual May Day fair that runs this year from April 29th – May 3rd. I don’t dare move my car from in front of the house because someone will surely … Continue reading → > read more

I Poached Dave’s Sweetbreads Terrine!

Published on 2011-04-30 04:12:34

When I saw the ingredients for this terrine, I knew I was going to attempt it. Crawfish, veal and sweetbreads; it called my name! The fact that I had never cooked sweetbreads, caused a slight hesitation for about … Continue reading → > read more

California Bear Makes Jambalaya

Published on 2011-04-27 13:47:25

I think that since the time our son went away to university in London, he’s been hungry. I don’t think this really happened when he was in boarding school in Switzerland; they had fantastic meals and plenty of it. … Continue re > read more

The Barbecue Man Was Here

Published on 2011-04-27 00:42:14

The boy dropped in and barbecued some pork chops. I marinated these for about an hour in some marinade sauce I found in the fridge. I’m not really sure what it was but it had green peppers, red peppers, ginger, … Continue reading → > read more

Hiyashi Chuka with Somen Noodles

Published on 2011-04-26 07:42:26

All praises due to Maki over at Just Bento. I have made this refreshing bowl of noodles many times and it works as well for guests as for family. Consider offering a small amount in a large bowl … Continue reading → > read more

Le Volant Restaurant: Offaly Good Food!

Published on 2011-04-25 23:55:19

Soon after I moved to France, our son invited us to dinner at a Basque restaurant in Paris called Le Volant. His friend, a fellow lover of those “nasty bits” recommended that we share a plate of duck hearts with … Continue reading > read more

Scallop Stuffed Leek and Salmon Roll

Published on 2011-04-25 10:39:30

This is another interesting creation from the traiteur. He wrapped fresh salmon and leeks around a stuffing made of scallops. I baked this for 25 minutes in a 350 degree oven Added a salad and voila! Wine suggestion: Chablis > read more

April in Paris: Eating and Shopping

Published on 2011-04-25 00:29:14

A lady from Niger once told me, “you eat alone, you die alone”….. I’m still thinking about that one. However I do enjoy eating with others, whether I’m cooking at home or eating out at a restaurant. Eating … > read more

Gypsy Mini Meat Loaves

Published on 2011-04-24 01:25:51

We are always traveling; packing to go, unpacking on arrival, cobbling together meals. “Like a band of Gypsies, we go down the highway”. That Willie Nelson song always runs through my head whenever I’m leaving home. Jade and > read more

Two Bentos

Published on 2011-04-21 00:11:56

I found a few bento boxes in the garage and thought I’d pack a couple. While I was making these, a friend stopped by. She really thought it was a riot that I was packing a lunch in a … Continue reading → > read more

A French Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato, Avocado and Reblochon Sandwich

Published on 2011-04-20 07:07:11

I stumbled upon a site called Quest for 101. The blogger was eating his way through the New York Magazine’s list of the best sandwiches in New York. Some of them looked pretty good, like the sloppy joe Vietnamese … Continue reading & > read more

Jade’s Broccoli and Bleu D’Auvergne Flan

Published on 2011-04-19 00:26:36

Jade is out of school for 2 weeks and thought she would like to work with another kind of French pastry. Today she chose “pate brisee”, the equivalent of a short crust, to make this scrumptious broccoli, blue cheese flan. Bleu DR > read more

It’s So Wrong! And Cod Fish Marinated in Miso

Published on 2011-04-18 05:18:46

Whenever I talk to some people about Japanese food they say, “Oh yeah, I just love sushi”! It’s so annoying and it’s so wrong! Sushi is just one type of Japanese cuisine! In fact, not even the Japanese eat sushi … Cont > read more

Spicy Sesame Chicken

Published on 2011-04-17 06:13:04

It was all because I saw this plate of sesame chicken on facebook being eaten by my friend, Andrew D. I wanted some. Then these really red, red, red peppers caught my eye at Carrefour; what could I … Continue reading → > read more

Sesame Ginger Beef Stir Fry

Published on 2011-04-16 00:32:59

I meant to make sesame chicken but I got distracted by this steak that I found in the freezer. This was really quick and easy but tasty. I don’t know why some people don’t like vegetables. They look so bite-able to … Continue rea > read more

Dashi Braised Paris Mushrooms

Published on 2011-04-15 03:54:55

I woke up this morning thinking about bento boxes and my Japanese supplies that are in boxes in the garage. I went out to the garage and to my surprise, my husband had straightened things around and brought out to … Continue reading → > read more

Of Curiosity, Curry, and Coffee Mills

Published on 2011-04-14 11:38:46

I may lack a palate but my buddy, M. Parret, lacks curiosity; at least when it comes to food. I must say that he and Madame P eat very well in the old school French way, but balk at new … Continue reading → > read more

Sapporo Beer

Published on 2011-04-13 09:13:46

Great video! > read more

Wagamama Makes Miso Happy!

Published on 2011-04-12 08:04:37

Well the gas grill is up and working just in time for the gorgeous weather we’re having here in the Bourgogne. I threw in the Bourgogne because my son’s friend thinks Burgundy sounds funny. Obviously it’s a language problem. &# > read more

Texas Ox Tails with Beans

Published on 2011-04-11 09:22:04

As I promised, when I found my pressure cooker, I would make my mother’s oxtails. Voila, my pressure cooker! And voila the oxtails! For years I was deathly afraid of pressure cookers. This was probably due to my … Continue reading & > read more

Eating French

Published on 2011-04-10 03:45:54

We were first invited to a meal with the French in Niger, probably about 1984-85. We had become friends with several French firemen, policemen and their spouses through our horseback riding club. Quite an adventurous group; they would organize & > read more

Horseradish Sauce

Published on 2011-04-08 08:41:23

Have you ever bought those prepared horseradish sauces in the supermarket? I have, and I must tell you , no more! This sauce is an unctuous blend of horseradish, Dijon mustard, creme fraiche and whipped cream. Prime rib/steak ready! … > read more

Salmon Rillettes

Published on 2011-04-07 08:06:30

Our neighbor, Mme Parret, makes the best duck rillettes. Even the best traiteur here in Sens can not compete with her. Rillettes is a type of pate made with slow cooked, shredded meat and fat. You can also make … Continue reading ͛ > read more

The Grilling of the Salmon

Published on 2011-04-06 11:23:47

Well, one of the “grill boys” came back and fixed my gas grill. I bought a lovely piece of salmon for the occasion. Along with this, I decided to go for a roast of parsnips, mushrooms and cute little French … Continue reading &# > read more

Shrimp and Scallop Stuffed Artichokes

Published on 2011-04-05 13:15:33

I grew up in California and have always loved fresh steamed artichokes with melted butter. Though artichoke hearts in oil are fine, especially Italian; but there is nothing like stripping those plump leaves, dipped in butter, of their rich greenness > read more

Beef Lentil Stew

Published on 2011-04-04 11:34:37

Today is Monday market day and you can really tell that Spring has sprung! Lots of different things in the market. I had already decided to make lentil stew for this evening’s meal, but the asparagus and artichokes caught my attention, bi > read more

Salon du Chocolat en Sens

Published on 2011-04-03 13:48:39

This Sunday the town of Sens hosted a “Salon du Chocolat” in the covered market where the best chocolate artisans in the area showcased their wares. Lots of free samples and tastings; chocolate chip cookies, chocolate bites with sautern > read more

Cooking for Jade

Published on 2011-04-02 14:16:04

Today was Jade’s 14th birthday. Her dad arranged a break from work to be here and to bring the presents I ordered on internet I love cooking, yes, but I super love cooking for my family. When asked if … Continue reading → > read more

Honey Roasted Duck Legs

Published on 2011-03-31 11:05:58

This was a wonderful recipe. Thank you Vietnamese people! Thank you newasiancuisine.com! I chose to serve this as an appetizer but I will make this again to serve with noodles. I decided to do something with duck legs … Continue reading > read more

Clay Pot Roasted Veal Shoulder with Mushrooms

Published on 2011-03-29 06:52:46

This roast cooked up in the clay pot in 45 minutes. The smell from the herbs, onions and shallots was incredible! Boy howdy! Along side the veal and mushrooms, I added a mound of garlic smashed potatoes with skin. … Continue reading → > read more

Salmon Anytime, Anyway

Published on 2011-03-28 13:27:24

I bought a nice, big piece of salmon yesterday at Leclerc’s. It was a difficult decision because they had a beautiful, small piece of Irish salmon also. I asked Jade and she voted for big. It was unanimous. … Continue reading U > read more

Mini Casseroles of Veal Kidneys in Mustard Sauce

Published on 2011-03-28 08:07:30

I like kidneys, Jade likes kidneys but the men don’t. More for us. Their aversion is to “les abats”, or the insides of any animal. Well guys, the French are standing in line for this, paying ridiculous prices … Continu > read more

Red Mullet Fillets with Saffron Sauce

Published on 2011-03-27 06:42:14

Here in France these pretty little babies are called rouget barbet. I had these once at our town’s 2 star Michelin restaurant, La Madeleine, and couldn’t get them out of my mind. That was about 3 or 4 years … Continue reading & > read more

Foie de Veau aux Oignons Dore et Lardon: Liver and Onions

Published on 2011-03-24 13:30:41

Jade is turning into a little gourmet or gourmand She wanted veal liver again. Decided to go old school with onions and bacon, like my mom. But first I wanted to move some things on that have been … Continue reading → > read more

Sesame Ginger Beef with Two Peppers

Published on 2011-03-24 04:51:47

Sesame Ginger Beef with Two Peppers 1/2 pound of beef steak, sliced into strips 2 tbsp vegetable oil 1 tsp sesame seed oil 1 shallot, thinly sliced vertically 4 cloves of garlic, coarsely chopped 1 inch piece of ginger, slivered … Continue read > read more

Jade’s Leek and Gorgonzola Quiche

Published on 2011-03-23 10:42:08

Every Wednesday Jade has a day off from school. Today she was food gazing in my Saveur magazine and decided she would really like to make the leek and Gorgonzola quiche. She’s really starting to be interested in cooking/eating and excited > read more

Chiquetaille Trio: Canape, Verrine and Salad

Published on 2011-03-22 07:44:11

Four days have passed, the chiquetaille (cod fish salad)http://cookinginsens.wordpress.com/2011/03/18/haitian-chiquetaille-cod-fish-salad/ is now ready to eat and you’re probably wondering what to do with it. So was I. I, inexplicably, ma > read more

Calf’s Liver with Date and Onion Compote

Published on 2011-03-21 08:24:53

Monday market day! As is too usual, I was hanging around the triperie (tripe shop). Although I didn’t have anything in mind, I joined the queue anyway. When it was finally my turn, I decided to buy some … Continue reading → > read more

Tastespotting.com and Me

Published on 2011-03-20 12:39:25

I’ve been trying for a couple of months now to get tastespotting.com to accept one of my food photos. I read the manual for my 2 year old Pentax Optio S-12 point and shoot for the first time in it’s … Continue reading → > read more

Shrimp, Avocado and Yam Salad Revisited

Published on 2011-03-20 08:21:11

Yams have been cultivated in Asia and Africa since 8000 B.C. and are related to the large West African manioc root, igname , that we like best cooked like french fries and dipped into some wicked fresh green chilie. I … Continue reading ͛ > read more

Tonight’s the Night: Steak Sandwich

Published on 2011-03-19 14:02:11

Busy day shopping today. Entrecote (rib steak) and duck thighs were on sale at the Carrefour Supermarket. We also stopped at the Foire Fouille, a big “dollar” store to look for backdrops for food photos. I found a large … Con > read more

Haitian Chiquetaille: Cod Fish Salad

Published on 2011-03-18 10:26:42

This is going to be another “back in the day” story. We first went to Haiti in 1976, the year of our marriage. My husband had been a peace corps volunteer for 3 years in Chad and Niger. … Continue reading → > read more

Beef and Spinach Noodles with Wild Sesame Seed

Published on 2011-03-17 06:07:44

Now that it’s starting to warm up, I’ve been wandering around in the garage. Oh happy days, I found a box with Japanese cooking supplies! One of the things in the box was roasted wild sesame seed. … Continue reading → > read more

Chili Beans

Published on 2011-03-16 14:34:16

These are chili beans, not chili, because 1) chili doesn’t have beans in it 2) chili doesn’t have ground meat in it; the meat should be chopped. My mother said. The emphasis in this dish should be on the … Continue reading > read more

Steak and Kidney Pie

Published on 2011-03-14 06:23:09

There is this awesome website called Historical Foods, http://historicalfoods.com, with recipes that go back to the Dark Ages and through to modern times. I like “back in the day” original recipes that think nothing of requiring you t > read more

Jade’s Mushroom Stuffed Brie and Charcuterie Platter

Published on 2011-03-14 03:24:16

Invited to a birthday party this Sunday we decided to try out another French pastry, “pate brisee”, by making a baked brie wrapped in pastry or “brie en croute”. When we unwrapped the prepackaged pastry, it appeared to be & > read more

Fried Cod Nuggets with Ginger Dipping Sauce

Published on 2011-03-12 13:12:00

Oops, I thought I had panko but it must be in the garage. I did have regular bread crumbs and they worked just fine. Yes, I am going through a Japanese/Chinese/Asian phase. A craving really and my favorite … Continue reading → > read more

This Is Not Hard: Boneless and Stuffed Coquelet or Cornish Game Hen

Published on 2011-03-11 10:50:31

I don’t think I cook many things that are really complicated. That’s probably why I don’t bake cakes; too fiddly. After all I’m not a chef, just a woman who thinks food is interesting. So if I debone poultry, and … Conti > read more

Ribs, Pork Belly and Fennel Cucumber Salad

Published on 2011-03-09 10:50:51

One more. Yeah! I’ve got a temporary respite from workers trashing the house. I decided that I would clean the dust, gravel and what have you from the floors, ceilings and surfaces. I took out the other part of … Continue reading > read more

Pork Steak and Mushrooms

Published on 2011-03-08 00:56:27

Another bin bargain, I bought 4 pork steaks for 4 Euros! You really have to get there early. One lady had an armload of lamb chops, steaks, chickens and pork roasts. The only reason I got the pork … Continue reading → > read more

Hungry Woman Asian-like Turkey Bowl

Published on 2011-03-07 02:47:59

On Sunday morning I woke up late and starving! I really had no time to grab anything; the dog was moaning for her morning walk, I had to get to the grocery store for urgent items before they closed at … Continue reading → > read more

Thai, Peking Duck and Parmentier

Published on 2011-03-06 02:16:47

This weekend Jade and I were in Paris for a visit with her brother. It’s 53 minutes from our town to Paris by the TGV train. We spent Friday at the hair salon and met the son and a … Continue reading → > read more

Thyme for Roast Chicken with Root Vegetables

Published on 2011-03-02 05:42:44

Wednesday market. I think that root vegetables are some of the least attractive vegetables, in a sort of “evil lurks this way” manner. It doesn’t help that the market people like to display them with that “just picked” l > read more

Bacon Wrapped Pork Tenderloin, Fennel and Apricots

Published on 2011-02-28 11:17:16

I found this recipe at the “real simple” website, however it was so simple, I decided to complicate it For instance, I think the bacon wrapped tenderloin should be browned separately, removed from the pan and replaced after the … > read more

Parmentier de Boudin Noir aux deux Pommes

Published on 2011-02-28 07:32:49

A dish that is “parmentier” includes mashed potatoes and is similar to a cottage pie. The two types of “pommes” in this recipe are potato(pomme de terre) and apple(pomme). Unlike the rice and pork meat stuffed boudin blanc o > read more

Jade’s New York Style Pizza

Published on 2011-02-27 04:40:35

My friend Kathy P is a dedicated baker. Pies, cookies, brownies, German chocolate cake, whatever. That’s what she likes to do. I think she’s from Minnesota or someplace in that area. Something to do with Norwegians. … Co > read more

Indochine Kitchen’s Crispy Fried Pork Belly

Published on 2011-02-26 11:38:35

The Indochine Kitchen blog is my very favorite blog at the moment. Jun is a great cook and her photography is awe inspiring. I’ve got to take better pictures! I wonder what kind of camera she uses…… This … Continue rea > read more

Salmon with Asian Style Cabbage, Fennel and Bacon

Published on 2011-02-25 08:20:25

Time for our salmon fix. I found this recipe in ”delicious” magazine. The difference is that I used salmon instead of trout or snapper fillets. I just happened to have a nice piece of salmon in the … Continue reading &# > read more

Hot Tuna Salad Stuffed Tomatoes

Published on 2011-02-23 11:06:49

My husband loves tuna salad. Mainly because it’s good and he can claim that he has eaten fish. Okay. He makes sandwiches with lettuce and tomatoes on visibly charcoaled toast; chaque un a son gout. I’m posting this for him ̷ > read more

Le Creuset Seafood Mini Casseroles

Published on 2011-02-23 08:29:48

Jade and I like fish and seafood. That also must be true of the Sens market adherents; there are 3 separate, large fish stalls in the market! M. Parret also informs me that a fish supermarket will be opening up … Continue reading → > read more

Truly Spicy Calamari Chowder

Published on 2011-02-21 10:16:21

I wanted to make something with the frozen calamari rings that I bought the other day and I didn’t want to fry them. Looking around the internet, I found an idea at about.com that I thought I could work with. … Continue reading → > read more

Marche Brocante, Honey Mustard Chicken Wings and Fava Beans

Published on 2011-02-20 05:20:23

Here in Sens, about once a month on Sundays, there is a marche brocante or flea market set up on the promenade. The promenade is a huge green space that encircles the town center making it possible to stroll, traffic … Continue reading U > read more

Jade’s Strawberry Tart

Published on 2011-02-19 10:38:31

Jade and I have been fascinated and, yes, confused by the number of different prepackaged pastry crusts they have here; pate brisee, pate feuilletee, pate sable and brick. As she is on vacation until March 6th, she wanted to … Continue readi > read more

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