christmas

In France, a proper Christmas dinner wouldn’t be complete without the traditional Bûche de Nöel. This wooden-log shaped dessert is a distinctly celebrated French tradition – or might I say, an institution!   Proof is, every year in early December, the most renowned French pastry chefs unveil their new signature Bûche de Nöel – in what is the most awaited culinary moment of the year, in France. Chefs compete in showing off their skills with their most imaginative bûche yet, which are for the most part, far (in taste and look) from …

Roasting a majestic stuffed turkey is a Christmas Day classic in France, but not everyone is looking to cook a whole bird in their oven… This stuffed Rabbit Saddle with chestnuts and mushrooms offers a lighter and less-traditional option for your dinner. But still, the key components remain: a lean white meat that is tender and juicy, and the classic French-style stuffing made of creamy chestnuts and earthy mushrooms.

Take your classic Foie Gras on Toast over the top, with this quick spiced persimmon chutney. A sweet and salty festive appetizer for Christmas! 

One /  two / three / four / five / six / seven / eight / nine / ten / eleven / twelve / thirteen / fourteen / fifteen / sixteen / seventeen We all have a French loving foodie in our life… (and if you are reading this blog, it is probably you!). And with gifting season upon us, I wanted to share a few gift ideas I’m sure will delight any French lover this Christmas season! 

The Classic French madeleines get a Holiday twist, and an American twist too!  Yes, most of you might not know it, but eggnog (in french “lait de poule”) is not common at all in France, apart from in the French Caribbean Islands. But while “French Christmas” and “eggnog” are terms usually not associated with one another, these French Eggnog Madeleines are the exception to the rule… And they are a match made in heaven!

These tiny Almond Pistachio Crescent Cookies are a twist on the traditional French vanillekipferl (or “croissants de lune” in French) , which are part of the bredele cookie spread served for St Nicholas Day, or Christmas, in Alsace. Usually flavoured with vanilla, this version packs on nutty flavours, with loads of ground almond, pistachio and a dash of almond extract.

Also called “quince cheese” (maybe because it’s so delicious paired with cheese?), Quince Pâte De Fruit is one of the famous 13 desserts, traditionally served to end Christmas supper in Provence, France. It is such a dainty little treat to enjoy on its own or with some crackers and a slice of cheese (but if you want to enjoy it with some cheese, I would recommend you do not coat it in sugar.)

Before getting into the Christmas spirit, the French from Alsace and Lorraine first get ready for the feast day of St Nicholas, on December 6. Just like in Germany and most Western Christian countries, St Nicholas Day is a big celebration in Alsace – almost as important as Christmas.

What would a French Holiday Season be without a few slices of delicious Spiced Bread? Fragrant, sweet and comforting, it is simply a must. This recipe, by French Pastry Chef Michalak, combines sweet honey with bright citrus flavors, and is perfectly spiced. A pure pleasure!