acookinthecreuse

For dessert last night I made a nectarine, cherry, red and black currant crumble. Crumble is my go to dish when I have fruit that needs to be used up. I also like to make clafoutis. The cherries had been in the fridge for a day or two, and I wasn't sure if they'd be nice for eating anymore. Summer is such a great time for fruit, cooked or otherwise, and I find that we can't eat it quickly enough. I like to serve either the crumble or clafoutis with either vanilla ice cream or custard.

I looooovvvvveeee cheese! When I go to our local weekly market, I often go a bit overboard at the cheese kiosk. I'm really trying to cut down on the amount of cheese I eat. I think it's addictive and would interested to know if there is any scientific evidence to prove this! (Some of)My favorites are: Beaufort Pont L'eveque Saint Felicien The cheeses that I can't do without (yes there is a difference, as these are ones I use more for cooking, while the others tend to be dessert!) Real Parmigiano Reggiano Mozzarella (soft, di bufala if possible) A good Gruyere or strong cheddar A good Chevre (I love Rocamadour)

I'm a big fan of Yogi teas. I like their night time teas and their digestive teas (they make a number of different ones. I do think herbal teas, no matter the brand really, do work and can at least help you feel better. I like the lemon ginger teas when I have a cold. If you can get your hands on, or make, Korean Saenggang Cha (ginger/honey tea), when you've got a cold, that's the best! It often comes in a jar and has texture like a jam or marmalade. You just get a spoonful or so, and pour boiling water over it. It's delicious and does help clear your head when it's stuffed up. I'm not a big fan of plain old water, so often find myself drinking different herbal teas throughout the day instead and at night too. I don't mind if they get cold.

I've often had to dine alone when travelling. On the one hand, I enjoy the experience because I love eating out in new cities or countries. On the other hand, I find that the stares of other diners and sometimes the attitude of restaurant staff can be a bit off putting. I think this is something I've only really experienced when dining alone in Europe.

Hello all, I don't know if you all are familiar with 'Curiosity Stream'. We recently downloaded the app to our TV. The program we've been really enjoying is called, "Food Markets: In the Belly of the City" from 2013. It focuses on the main markets of big cities throughout Europe such as Barcelona, Florence, Riga etc. Then it goes into the surrounding areas and shows us something of the producers and how they live, get their produce and bring it market. There is also a focus on people who use the market for their livelihoods, from chefs to people who create products such as jams. It's really well done and you learn a lot about the different food cultures and traditions of these countries. It's just fun to watch really!

For me it's anything that I can add mushrooms to! Chicken with mushrooms, mushroom ragu for pasta, mushroom risotto or lasagne and the list goes on. I love them baked in the oven for breakfast and served with eggs on toast. At this time of year, when we're out walking our dogs, we often see people out foraging for mushrooms in the forests. There are so many and a huge array of varieties. I wish I knew enough to forage myself, but I'm terrified of poisoning us by accident. I know we could take them to the pharmacie, but I'm still too chicken to try!

Hello all, I'm Erica and I live and cook in the french countryside. I look forward to talking food with you all!