Over the last several months I have been rigorously testing some cookware from legendary French maker Mauviel, and it has totally changed the way I cook. From searing meats to simmering velvety sauces or baking perfectly golden desserts, nothing cooks like copper. Even a thick steak won’t chill a hot copper skillet, and perfectly even […]
Those who know me and longtime readers know that I dream of being a Chef one day, having started my site years ago while living in southwestern Germany. I got my start with a stack of cookbooks that my husband gave me as inspiration to start pursuing my dream. If you had told me back […]
Though the tragic events in Paris on November 13th cast a shadow over À la carte Chicago, the spirits of my French colleagues gradually recovered as hope and determination replaced fear. One week later the 31st annual Passport to France event began with an uncorking of emotions in a celebration of French culture and resolve. […]
I recently had the pleasure of attending a private luncheon for the Consul General of France, Mr. Vincent Floreani. The event was part of À la carte Chicago, a celebration of contemporary French cuisine and culture. Fifteen guests gathered at Chez Moi in Lincoln Park to experience a four-course menu prepared by Executive Chef Dominique […]
In November, more than 35 local restaurants and organizations participated in the first annual À la carte Chicago. An 11-day celebration of French food, wine, and culture, with menus and events designed to excite and inspire, and A Cook’s Canvas was invited to cover several of the events. Restaurants across the city, most but not […]
Spring has arrived at last, the trees are full of leaves again and the days are getting longer. Local farmer’s markets are just starting up again and though its still early in the season, the first summer vegetables are starting to appear. Deep red tomatoes, golden yellow squash, dark green zucchini, and violet eggplant are […]
My doorbell rang yesterday, and when I opened the door expecting company, nobody was there, just footprints in the snow leading up the steps to my door, and there at my feet nestled in the snow was a small parcel wrapped in brown paper tied with a string. I had been anxiously awaiting this package, […]
I have to confess that even before arriving at Paris Club, I knew I was in for something special. When I started this blog I was living in Europe, where I was inspired by the variety of cuisines that were all around us; my favorite of course being french food. As I first stepped into […]
If you love beef stew, you will love this classic French version, called boeuf bourguignon. Although putting boeuf bourguignon in the same category with common beef stew just doesn’t seem right. The first time I tasted this dish was in Paris, on our 9th wedding anniversary, sitting at a small restaurant near the banks of […]
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