Bonjour à toutes et à tous!
Ah, apples – the crunchy, sweet delights that have been gracing our orchards and kitchens for centuries. C’est si bon! Today, let’s embark on a journey through the world of apples, from their horticultural roots and the lush orchards of France to their storied history and their incredible role in French cooking.
Apples and French Terroir
Apples, or “pommes” in French, find their home in the rich and diverse landscapes of France. From the idyllic apple orchards in Normandy to the sun-kissed trees in the Loire Valley, the country’s climate and terroir create the perfect conditions for apple cultivation. It’s no wonder that French apples are celebrated for their exceptional flavor and quality.
A Bite of History
The history of apples is a tale as old as time. Humans have cultivated and enjoyed apples for thousands of years. In France, their roots run deep, with evidence of apple trees dating back to Roman times. Over the centuries, countless apple varieties were developed, each with its own unique flavor and texture.
Apples in French Cuisine: A True Delight
Now, let’s explore the fantastic role of apples in French cooking. From sweet to savory, apples add a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance to countless dishes.
One of the most iconic French desserts is “Tarte Tatin,” a luscious caramelized apple tart. In this classic, apples are slow-cooked with butter and sugar. The result is a heavenly caramel sauce that surrounds the tender fruit. After baking the tarte, the cook simply flips it over. The result is a golden, upside-down masterpiece that captures the essence of French culinary magic.
Our gâteau aux pommes is a simpler version of the tarte Tatin. One can find countless versions of this cake throughout Normandy during the autumn apple harvest. Part cake and part custard, it is indulgent without being overly rich. While I’d never say “non” to a slice of cold apple cake, you really want to enjoy this while it’s still warm from the oven.
Apples are also a cherished component of the quintessential French charcuterie platter. A slice of pâté paired with a crisp apple adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory flavors. The French adore the combination of apple’s natural sweetness and the complexity of fine cheeses, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
In the realm of French cuisine, apples play a versatile role in everything from salads to hearty stews. Their natural sweetness and crisp texture make them an ideal addition to both sweet and savory recipes, adding depth and balance to a wide range of dishes.
Apple Cake – c’est si bon!
Apples are a true treasure in the world of French cuisine, and their journey through history and French orchards is a fascinating one. They offer a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance, making them a beloved ingredient in kitchens all over France and beyond. N’est-ce pas? So, the next time you’re in your kitchen, grab some apples and let their incredible potential brighten your culinary adventures. Bon appétit!
A bientôt! Et bonne cuisine!
Gâteau aux pommes
Ingredients
- 1 lb apples
- ¼ cup butters for cooking the apples
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 cup flour
- ¼ cup sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ⅓ cup melted butter for the batter
- 1 ⅔ cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350℉.
- Wash, peel, core, and slice the apples. Place in a large bowl of ice water. You can add a few drops of lemon juice to stop the apples from turning brown.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the flour, sugar, and eggs until smooth. Mix in the melted butter. Add the milk and vanilla and whisk thoroughly until smooth.
- In a 9-inch skillet, melt the ¼ cup of butter. Add the sliced apples and cook until soft and slightly browned, about 10 minutes.
- Use a spatula to evenly spread the apples in the skillet. Pour the batter over the apples.
- Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove from oven and serve while warm.