Exploring World Cuisines From Home: A Parisian Soirée!

Ah, Paris! The very name evokes visions of artful plating, buttery croissants, and sunlit streets adorned with patisseries. As the heart of culinary excellence, Paris is not just about food; it’s about an experience. This week, let’s transport our dining room to the boulevards of Paris and feast on some quintessential Parisian delights.

1. Croque Monsieur

The Tale: Essentially a grilled ham and cheese sandwich, the Croque Monsieur is a beloved Parisian bistro staple. The name translates to “Mr. Crunch”, and it surely lives up to its title!

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of white bread
• 4 slices of ham
• 100g grated Gruyère cheese
• Dijon mustard
• Béchamel sauce (made with butter, flour, milk, nutmeg, salt, and pepper)
• Butter

Instructions:

1. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on half the bread slices. Place a slice of ham and sprinkle some Gruyère on top. Cover with another slice of bread.
2. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat. Cook each sandwich until golden brown on both sides.
3. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Spread béchamel sauce over the top of each sandwich and sprinkle with more Gruyère. Bake until cheese is bubbly and golden.

2. Coq au Vin

The Tale: This rich and hearty stew translates to “rooster in wine”. Traditionally made with rooster and Burgundy wine, it’s a warming dish often enjoyed in the colder months.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken legs
• 200g lardons or chopped bacon
• 250g mushrooms, sliced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 750ml red wine
• Chicken stock
• Fresh thyme and bay leaves
• Butter and olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, brown the chicken legs in butter and oil. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the lardons, mushrooms, carrots, and onions. Add garlic.
3. Return the chicken to the pot. Pour in the wine and enough chicken stock to cover the chicken. Add thyme and bay leaves. Simmer for about 1.5 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper. Serve with crusty bread.

3. Tarte Tatin

The Tale: A serendipitous mishap by the Tatin sisters led to this upside-down caramelised apple tart. A dessert that’s as enchanting as Parisian nights.

Ingredients:

6-7 apples, peeled, cored, and quartered

150g sugar

75g butter

1 sheet puff pastry

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 200°C.

In a ovenproof pan, melt butter and sugar until caramelised. Place apple quarters in a circular pattern.

Cover apples with puff pastry, tucking in the edges. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden. Carefully flip the tart onto a plate.