Indulgence Redefined: Moi by Mademoiselle Desserts Launches Mini Beignets

In the realm of culinary delights, few things evoke as much anticipation and satisfaction as the unveiling of a new delicious dessert. And when it comes to desserts, Mademoiselle Desserts has long been a name synonymous with excellence and innovation. 

This time, they've outdone themselves with the launch in the UK of their latest creation: Mini Beignets under the brand name "Moi."

As lovers of all things sweet, we're always on the lookout for the next big thing in the dessert world. So, when news broke of Moi's Mini Beignets hitting the shelves, we couldn't wait to sink our teeth into these delectable treats.

For those uninitiated, beignets are a beloved treat hailing from France. Traditionally, they are deep-fried doughnuts, light and fluffy on the inside, with a crispy exterior, and generously dusted with powdered sugar. However, Mademoiselle Desserts has taken this classic French delight and given it a modern twist with their Mini Beignets.

The first thing you notice upon opening a pack of Moi Mini Beignets is their petite size. These bite-sized wonders are perfect for popping into your mouth for a quick burst of sweetness or for sharing with friends and family as an irresistible treat.

But don't let their size fool you; these Mini Beignets are big on flavour. Each bite is a symphony of textures and tastes, with the delicate crunch giving way to a pillowy softness inside. And the best part? They come in a variety of flavours to suit every palate.

Available flavours include Hazelnut & Cocoa, Red Fruits, Apple, and Speculoos, so there's a Mini Beignet for everyone. And thanks to Mademoiselle Desserts' commitment to using only the finest ingredients, you can taste the quality in every bite.

One of the things that sets Moi Mini Beignets apart is their versatility. Whether enjoyed on their own with a cup of coffee or incorporated into your favorite dessert recipes, these little delights are sure to elevate any culinary creation.

But it's not just the taste and versatility that have us singing Moi Mini Beignets' praises; it's also their convenience. Perfect for on-the-go snacking or as a quick pick-me-up during a busy day, these Mini Beignets are a game-changer for anyone with a sweet tooth.

In a world where indulgence is often synonymous with guilt, Moi Mini Beignets offer a guilt-free way to satisfy your cravings. With their miniature size and portion-controlled packaging, you can enjoy these little luxuries without worrying about overindulging.

So, whether you're a die-hard dessert aficionado or simply someone looking to treat themselves to something special, Moi Mini Beignets are a must-try. With their irresistible flavour, convenient size, and guilt-free indulgence, they're sure to become your new favorite sweet treat.

https://www.mademoiselledesserts.com/int/about-us/moi-by-mademoiselle-desserts/

Recipes to Add a Touch of Flair to Your Easter Celebrations

After weeks of keeping, or trying to keep Lenten promises, many of us will be ready for a delicious feast on Easter Sunday. 

Throughout Europe, as well as enjoying plenty of chocolate eggs, Easter is a time to enjoy a special meal with friends and family, giving everyone the chance to discover and enjoy the versatility of French cheeses.

Planning an Easter celebration? Why not impress guests with some delicious Morbier arancini? It's a semi soft cheese with a distinctive line of ash pressed into its heart, Morbier has a persistent aroma and a light creamy, almost fruity flavour. Its soft, yielding texture melts very well which gives the arancini a gooey goodness. It's also a great cheese for pizzas, pies and for raclette.

For a lighter aperitif use fromage frais to create stuffed cherry tomatoes by mixing with spices, aromatic herbs, garlic or onion for a delicious dip or spread. 

These little bites will be fresh, tasty and a great menu item for those wanting to leave plenty of room for the main course. Place any leftover filling into a bowl to spread onto freshly baked bread, later. Delicious!

Tradition has long been to eat lamb at Easter, the meat is beautiful at this time of year and is realty appreciated by those who celebrate throughout Europe. 

For an extra special side dish or a vegetarian main, Carrot Gnocchi with Saint-Félicien is a bright and indulgent side dish and a great way to sneak some vegetables onto the children's plates too.

If you have a little more time on the day try a Carrot, Cumin and Cantal Soufflé that is sure to impress your guests. Cantal is a sweet nutty cheese made in the centre of France and is great to cook with.

For a sweet and savoury end to the meal, opt for a cheese course served with fresh apples, grapes and figs plus dried apricots, cranberries, dates and nuts. 

We recommend you start with a soft cheese such as Brillat-Savarin or Camembert, then an uncooked pressed cheese like a Tomme de Savoie, a cooked pressed cheese such as Beaufort and a blue such as Bleu d'Auvergne or Bleu de Gex.

We hope that you have a joyful Easter. With such a vast and versatile variety of European cheeses at your disposal it is sure to be delicious one.

https://www.filiere-laitiere.fr/fr/les-organisations/cniel

A Beginner's Guide to Mastering French Pastries at Home

French pastries are renowned worldwide for their exquisite taste, delicate textures, and artistic presentation. From buttery croissants to decadent macarons, mastering the art of French pastry-making can seem like a daunting task for beginners. 

However, with the right guidance and a bit of practice, anyone can elevate their baking skills to create these delectable treats in the comfort of their own kitchen. In this beginner's guide, we'll explore the essential tips and techniques to help you embark on your journey to becoming a French pastry aficionado.

Start with the Basics: Before diving into complex recipes, familiarise yourself with the fundamental techniques and ingredients used in French pastry-making. Learn how to make a basic pâte sucrée (sweet pastry dough) or pâte brisée (shortcrust pastry), as they serve as the foundation for many French desserts.

Invest in Quality Ingredients: The quality of ingredients directly impacts the final outcome of your pastries. Opt for high-quality butter, fresh eggs, and fine flour to achieve the best results. Additionally, use authentic ingredients like pure vanilla extract and premium chocolate to enhance the flavours of your creations.

Understand the Importance of Temperature: Temperature control is absolutely critical in French pastry-making, as it affects the texture and structure of your baked goods. Ensure your ingredients are at the right temperature, cold butter for flaky croissants, room temperature eggs for smooth custards, and chilled dough for perfectly shaped biscuits.

Master the Art of Laminated Dough: Laminated dough is the secret behind many iconic French pastries such as croissants and palmiers. Learn how to properly layer butter and dough to create flaky, buttery layers that melt in your mouth. Though it requires patience and precision, the end result is well worth the effort.

Learn how to make good quality Choux pastry, the star of many examples of French pastries, including eclairs.

Practice Precision and Patience: French pastry-making is all about precision and attention to detail. Follow recipes meticulously, measure ingredients accurately, and don't rush the process. Allow dough to rest and chill as needed to develop optimal flavour and texture.

Embrace the Artistry: French pastries are not only delicious but also visually stunning, too. Experiment with different shapes, decorations, and finishes to add your own artistic flair to each creation. Whether it's piping delicate rosettes of cream or mastering the art of sugar work, let your creativity shine through in your pastries.

Learn from Mistakes: Don't be discouraged by failed attempts, instead, view them as valuable learning experiences. Analyse what went wrong, whether it's overworked dough or underbaked pastries, and adjust your technique accordingly. With each mistake, you'll gain insights that will help you improve your skills.

Seek Inspiration and Resources: Expand your knowledge and repertoire by exploring French pastry cookbooks, online tutorials, and culinary workshops. Follow renowned pastry chefs on social media for inspiration and insights into their techniques. Join online baking communities to connect with fellow enthusiasts and exchange tips and recipes.

Practice, Practice, Practice: Like any craft, mastering French pastry-making requires practice and perseverance. Don't be discouraged by initial setbacks, keep honing your skills, experimenting with new recipes, and refining your techniques. With dedication and determination, you'll soon be creating exquisite French pastries that rival those found in patisseries.

Share and Enjoy: The joy of French pastry-making lies not only in the process but also in sharing your creations with loved ones. Host a French-themed dessert party or surprise friends and family with a homemade assortment of macarons, éclairs, and tarts. Celebrate your achievements and savor the fruits of your labor together.

In conclusion, mastering French pastries at home is a rewarding journey that combines artistry, precision, and passion. With the right guidance, practice, and a sprinkle of patience, you can elevate your baking skills to create stunning and delicious treats that capture the essence of French culinary tradition. So don your apron, preheat your oven, and embark on your delicious adventure into the world of French pastry-making – bon appétit!

Say It With cheese... Reveal the Depth of Your Amour With These Unique and Seductive European Cheeses

Looking to seduce your partner or seal the deal with your crush this Valentines, why not offer something imaginative that will say far more about your personality than a box of chocolates or a bunch of red roses?

And don't forget that your loved one will appreciate French cheeses for a fantastic Christmas gift, too!

For those who adore food, French cheeses offer the diversity and complex character that can't fail to impress if you take a little time to discover the cheese that best represents you or the target of your cupid's arrow. 

To melt their heart

With its classy name, bright appearance, unctuous texture and mild but complex flavours, the Brillat Savarin cannot fail to delight. This triple cream cheese is the indulgent treat that any cheese lover will appreciate.

Deep and generous

For something that is going to give that little extra in every bite, offer a 36-42 month aged Comté. This much respected cheese develops crunchy crystals as it matures and leaves a strong lasting finish that will keep them coming back for more.

With hidden surprises

The domed shaped Gaperon with its fluffy white rind is infused with garlic and peppercorns during the maturation process. Cut open to reveal an ivory or pale-yellow colour with a buttery consistency and the idiosyncratic, intense flavours of garlic and pink pepper.

Brooding blue

Beyond its strong aroma, the creamy, buttery, and pungent flavours of Bleu d'Auvergne give plenty of depth to reflect upon and the cheese is sure to leave a lasting impression. Try it with dried fruits and walnuts and serve with a glass of white dessert wine for maximum pleasure.

A good companion for all occasions

Brie de Meaux is known as the Prince of Cheeses and it is even said that it was Louis XVI's decision to stop and enjoy a brie-filled pancake that led to his execution! Its rich milky taste, underlined by sweet and buttery flavours of mushrooms and almonds has made it a universally popular cheese with an ability to pair deliciously with fresh fruit, dried fruit, nuts and even bacon. For those with a sweet tooth, brie is delicious when baked in pastry with red fruits, apples and pears.

A traditionalist at heart

For those looking for a traditional romantic gesture the natural choice has to be Neufchâtel. This pretty cheese is known for its perfect Valentine's heart shape. It is said that during the Hundred Year's War, the young women of Normandy gave Neufchâtel as gifts to their British soldier sweethearts. Its bright white rind enrobes a soft, melt in the mouth centre and gives off a delicious mushroomy aroma. The paste smells of cream and definitely has a seductive appeal.

Bon appétit!

Remember to remove your chosen cheese from the fridge at least 90 minutes before serving or gifting to release the full flavours, aroma and texture.

CNIEL

https://www.filiere-laitiere.fr/fr/les-organisations/cniel

St-Remy Launches Limited Edition Bottle With Artist Lucas Beaufort

St-Rémy, the world's number one French brandy, unveils its exclusive collaboration with celebrated French artist Lucas Beaufort, which unites the worlds of fine spirits and of urban artistry, and will be certain to captivate collectors, art enthusiasts, and connoisseurs of fine brandy alike. 

Lucas Beaufort brings his revered vibrant street artist vision into the St-Rémy brand with a stunning limited-edition bottle design that showcases Beaufort's signature urban style, blending dynamic colours and captivating geometry that reflects his inspiration after tasting the St-Rémy XO with Master Blender, Cécile Roudaut.  

At the heart of this collaboration lies the shared values of authenticity, generosity, and open-mindedness, both of which Lucas Beaufort and St-Rémy hold dear. It's a meeting of two artists: Lucas, the painter of colours, memories, and emotions, and Cécile, the Master Blender, who expertly crafts harmony from the diversity of French terroirs. 

"Collaborating with St-Rémy on this project has been an genuinely incredible opportunity to fuse the worlds of art and savoire-faire," said Lucas Beaufort. "The design of this limited-edition bottle encapsulates the spirit of both our artistic endeavours and the refined excellence of St-Rémy brandy." 

Lucas Beaufort's captivating bottle artwork was inspired by an extensive tasting and masterclass with Master Blender Cécile Roudaut, where he translated St-Rémy XO's bold flavours of vanilla and wood, paired with the delicate notes of ripe fruits and honey into different shades of colours.   

"Diversity is the cornerstone of both Lucas and St-Rémy's artistic expressions," said Aveline Rimbaud, Executive Director at St-Rémy. "For St-Rémy, it is the diversity of the eaux-de-vie sourced from the different regions, grape varieties and vineyards of France. For Lucas Beaufort, it is his palette of colours, shapes, emotions, and memories that fuel his creativity. We share the belief that harmony is born from diversity." 

Both Cécile Roudaut and Lucas Beaufort embody the spirit of exploration in their unique ways - searching, waiting, observing, and adapting, to result in a harmonious creation. 

St-Rémy XO Tasting Notes 

Appearance  

Luminous amber, with a rich golden aura. 

Nose

Mature nose underpinned with echoes of oak and delicate vanilla aromas, layered with hints of ripe fruits and honey.  

Palate  

A rich palate of flavours. Subtle notes of wood and vanilla are enriched with flavours of gingerbread, candied apricots, dates, figs, and nuts. This complex taste is subtly spicy and offers a long finish. 

http://www.st-remy.com/

Côte restaurants announce return of the Prestige Menu for the summer - high quality dishes for a nice, set price

After church on Sunday I was talking with a friend who said that he and his wife were going to be dining at our nearest Côte restaurant to celebrate his birthday. And it looks as if it's coming together very nicely for them. How so?

Because Côte restaurants have announced the return of the Prestige set menu featuring high quality French dishes at affordable prices.

The exciting menu showcases exquisite food specially selected as a luxurious treat but at a delicious set menu price.

The Menu Prestige was designed by Côte executive chef Steve Allen who previously worked alongside Gordon Ramsay at his Michelin starred restaurants including London’s iconic Claridges and Petrus.

The triumphant return of the popular menu is all about great value evening meals featuring classic Côte a la carte dishes plus a selection curated exclusively by Steve.

The Menu Prestige will be available Monday to Friday from 7pm and available throughout the summer from the end of July at a selection of Côte restaurants across the country.

The set price menu will be trialled throughout the summer and if it proves to be a hit with diners it will be considered as a permanent fixture. The menu ranges from £18.95 for two courses and £22.95 for three courses (prices may vary).

The Menu Prestige will be available at Chester, Manchester, Liverpool, Cirencester, Winchester, Dorchester, St Martin’s Lane and Covent Garden Côte restaurants. 

Guests will be able to choose from starters including Calamari, French Onion Soup, Chicken Liver Parfait, Moules Normande and Salade Rachel.  Main course include Sea Bass Rouge, Confit Pork Belly, Squash Taboulé, Poulet Grillé and 8oz Sirloin steak (£3.50 surcharge). The delicious desserts include Chocolate Salted Caramel Tart, Almond Financier, Cheese Board and ice cream/sorbet.

A Côte spokesperson said: “In France almost every restaurant offers a set menu prix fixe and we wanted to showcase our fine French cuisine at affordable prices. At Côte we believe in life’s little luxuries and the Prestige menu was loved so much by our guests that we decided to print it back for the summer. Great food at affordable prices.”

​https://www.cote.co.uk.

Gourmet Explorer 6-day October cookery course in Carcassonne - special offer price!

Due to some last-minute cancellations on the French House Party Carcassonne's flagship cookery course, the Gourmet Explorer has spaces available at the unbelievable price of £950 - usual cost £1400, for single travellers.

The all-inclusive course includes cookery tuition from not one, but two master-chefs who run their own multi-star restaurants in the Carcassonne region of France.

Transfers from Toulouse or Carcassonne airports are also included, plus two meals out at restaurants and various other outings.

French House Party is recommended in the book "100 Best Worldwide Vacations to Enrich Your Life".

See website for more information: www.frenchhouseparty.eu