France: A country that inspires great, relaxed cooking
Submitted by Heather on Thu, 01/14/2010 - 03:55
It’s a wonderful area with a spectacular coast and a surprising history, Jill explains. There are awe-inspiring abbeys and cathedrals, chateaux and castles, fabulous terrain, landscapes and vistas, modern urban cities and quaint, old-world villages and towns. “I’ve visited a number of the World Heritage sites in the region,” says Jill, including Carcassonne, the Canal du Midi and the Pont du Gard.
Jill’s favourite village, though, is Beaufort, home to an award-winning winery and historic Chateau. She stays at Maison Beaufort, a newly renovated 19th century village house surrounded by the vineyards of the famed Languedoc region. Jill was introduced to it by owners Nancy Evans and Carol Panczyk several years ago, and most recently led her first cooking tour. Hosting six women guests, Jill, Nancy and Carol toured their guests through the region all the while visiting the farmer’s markets in different villages where food for that night’s dinner or lunch would be purchased. Later, Jill led the guests in the food preparation for all to enjoy.
“One of the highlights of traveling to France is the amazing markets,” comments Jill. “In this region, of particular note are St. Chinian, Narbonne and Olonzac. The weekly markets are a feast for the senses with some of the best cheeses, breads and sausages to be found.”
Visits to the best restaurants in such featured towns as Minerve and Collioure -- where Jill and friends sampled some of the finest tastes of France -- were also part of the tour. To check out more about Jill’s favourite place to stay, visit www.maisonbeaufort.com.
Featured French Products at Jill’s
In addition to a wide range of Emile Henry products, we also offer some of France’s best-known cheeses on a regular basis, including Epoisse, Reblochon, Brillat Savarin and Le Cru Camembert.
Also part of our pantry staples are du puy lentils, fleur de sel, herbes de provence and a wide selection of French olive oils and vinegars. Check out the lovely linens from Provence, too.
Also part of our pantry staples are du puy lentils, fleur de sel, herbes de provence and a wide selection of French olive oils and vinegars. Check out the lovely linens from Provence, too.