Categories
food

Buckwheat crepes: Galettes

Crêpes — this light and elegant northwestern French dessert has been enjoyed by so many around the world.  But did you know: In the early days of the crepe, white flour was an expensive product, reserved only for royalty.  That’s why savory crepes were traditionally made with buckweat , an easy to grow plant. As farmers became wealthier, […]

Categories
food

French Laundry

The French Laundry is a French restaurant located in Yountville, California, in the Napa Valley.  The name originated from the building once used as a French steam laundry back in the 1920’s.  In 1994, chef and current owner Thomas Keller bought the location  (he also owns Bouchon, Ad Hoc and Per Se).  Raved as one of the best restaurants in the world by Anthony […]

Categories
food

Speculoos!!!

Lately I’ve been obsessed with Speculoos, a type of shortcrust biscuit similar to graham crackers, traditionally baked for consumption around St Nicholas’ feast (around December) in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Northern France.  The spices used include pepper, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, cardamom and nutmeg.  They are also known as the Airline Cookie, as made famous on Delta Airlines.

Categories
what happened

A look back at 2011!

Continuing the tradition of reflecting at the end of each year (See 2010’s), here’s are some highlights from this year’s!  I will treasure all the friendships, food and fun I experienced in 2011! January Wonton making & movie “Notebook” (All pictures) Vietnamese egg roll making & movie “Julie & Julia”: (All pictures)

Categories
travel

Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel  While not as well known as Disneyland Paris, the second most visited sight in France is the grand Mont Saint-Michel.  This magnificent abbey is located on a rocky island half a mile offshore, and use to be cut off at high tides.  People have died crossing at the wrong time! Located over 200 miles away from Paris (4 […]