Joanna Biggar's Blog

     For les demoiselles, arriving in Paris meant a daily exercise in educating the senses, and nothing was more transforming than the sense of taste, in the form of French food. (more…)

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Living with the retired Professor of Cuisine, Gracie ate exceptionally well. The price was the nightly quiz and lecture, often about the abominations of American cooking. (more…)

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But what Madame Gautier did not realize was that one year before, a bomb had been set off in the international world of French cuisine, (more…)

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Camille, Gracie’s roommate, took to trying to bail Gracie out before Madame could bear down on her. Camille began to tip Gracie off. (more…)

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Despite the dreaded cheap, starchy meals in the student dining rooms, les demoiselles quickly branched out to appreciate the wonders of French food, even that which was inexpensive and simple. Salads, cheeses, quiches ,all with a nice wine, and even eggs.  (more…)

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     At Madame Gautier’s table, les demoiselles were likely to encounter rich gateaux, cremes caramels, mousses, and in other venues they discovered delicious ice creams, pastries and glazed fruits. Once, when J.J. turned her hand at making a pumpkin pie, using the artistry acquired from her French grandmother, (more…)

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