Whatever the reason for visiting France during July, I have to admit it is a pretty spectacular time to visit despite it being well known for misty showers and evening thunderstorms. It didn't much break its overcast attitude while we were there for six days and I was delighted. The weather was beautiful even if a little damp at a times. No matter, just whip out the old umbrella or pop into a cafe for a leisurely espresso or wine or heck, just stay the whole day chatting and watching passersby enjoy the scenic strolls as much as we did watching them.
During our stay, the menu we saw across town in the tourist-y areas are all pretty similar. Beautiful fresh salads, mainly Nicoise or chef salads, carpaccios of fish or beef, tartares of fish or beef and of course, the beloved baguettes with ham and cheese, eaten at practically any time of the day you can find them. We picked some up our first day on the way back to the hotel that evening just in case we experienced some jetlag munchies which usually occurs at a time when the hotel kitchens and many kitchens, for that matter, are closed for the night. Bummer when you are quite hungry so having done this rodeo before, we were quite well prepared because we sure did need those sandwiches later that night. Light fare. Indisputably French.
One reason for this post is to highlight a love affair that just began... something I've never had before this trip and can't wait for the next opportunity to have it again. French macarons are my newest foodie obsession. Not one for frilly desserts or overly sweet sweets, these little delights were full of magic and allure. Even if you aren't a frilly kind of gal, the jewel toned colors of these treats seduce you and the myriad of flavors you come across in Paris overwhelm and delight no matter who you are. Eye candy in its truest sense.
So since being back home and waxing on and on endlessly to anyone who will listen, I endeavored to make a batch. Merinque with a little powdered sugar and almond flour. How hard can it be? Stay tuned to find out just how freaking hard, folks! I will attempt to document my education when I can put down the piping bag long enough to write about my trials. And small, step by step tribulations because let me just tell you, it is a steep learning curve. Be prepared to eat or give away a LOT of hard won experience because it doesn't come easily or quickly. But, I carry on and hope to have this mastered by Christmas if I am at all lucky at my new found love...
Posts
