Bonjour à toutes et à tous!
In the heart of winter, frosty air envelops our senses and the holiday spirit takes center stage. In response, French cuisine transforms into a symphony of flavors and traditions. Among the many seasonal delights, plums shine brightly in our culinary repertoire, adding a burst of sweetness and sophistication to our holiday celebrations.
A Time-Honored Tradition
In French culture, Christmas isn’t just a holiday; it’s a cherished tradition filled with warmth, laughter, and, of course, exquisite food. And at the heart of this celebration is the plum, a fruit that has graced our tables for generations. From the picturesque villages of Provence to the bustling streets of Paris, plums play a starring role in our festive feasts.
Plums Are Délicieusement Diverse
One of the remarkable aspects of plums in French cuisine is their versatility. We adore them for their ability to seamlessly blend into both sweet and savory dishes. Imagine a tender, succulent roast duck glazed with a rich plum sauce, or a delightful plum tart adorned with a sprinkle of powdered sugar – these are the flavors that define a French holiday.
Très Bien in Tarts and Terrines
Speaking of plum tarts, they are a quintessential dessert during the Christmas season. The combination of buttery pastry, sweet plum compote, and a hint of almond cream is simply irresistible. Whether enjoyed after a sumptuous holiday meal or as a delectable snack with a cup of coffee, plum tarts have a special place in our hearts. The recipe that follows – a plum pavlova – is a lighter, modern take on the classic French tart.
Plum Jams and Preserves Galore
No French holiday table would be complete without an assortment of homemade plum jams and preserves. These jars of goodness, often lovingly crafted by family members, make for thoughtful gifts and serve as a delightful accompaniment to cheeses and charcuterie. They are a testament to the importance of preserving tradition – and plums – in our holiday celebrations.
Bien Sûr, Plums Are a Must
So, as you prepare for your own festive gatherings, consider incorporating plums into your holiday menu. Whether it’s a savory plum-stuffed roast or a sweet plum-filled pastry, these delightful fruits are sure to bring joy and flavor to your celebrations. Embrace the spirit of French cooking and savor the magic of plums – a tradition that never goes out of style. Très bien!
A bientôt! Et bonne cuisine!
Plum compote
Ingredients
- 12 Italian plums red or black plums work equally well if their smaller cousins are unavailable
- 3 tbsp seedless raspberry jelly
- 2 tbsp cognac or calvados
Instructions
- Wash the plums. Slice in half and remove the pit from each.
- Over medium low heat, gently warm the seedless raspberry jelly and cognac in a skillet. When the jelly fully melts, cook for two more minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Add the plums, face-side down and cook for 5 minutes (slightly longer if using larger plums). Gently shake the skillet from time to time as the plums cook to avoid sticking.
- Turn off the heat and let rest for 20 minutes.