@my_parisian_kitchen

THIS TIME, WE’RE FOLLOWING FLORENCE RICHOMME, AN EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT ORIGINALLY FROM THE FRENCH ALPS, NOW LIVING IN PARIS

What made you start a food blog?

When I went on parental leave to raise my three daughters, I gave cooking lessons to Japanese clients and was impressed by how eager they were to learn about French cuisine. A few years later, I started my blog to share recipes and stories, and prove French cuisine can be affordable.

Describe French food culture.

It all starts with finding the best produce at the farmers’ market, chatting with the producer, then searching for a recipe. Finally, gathering friends or family to enjoy lovely moments together. Gastronomic heritage is still central, even in modern French cuisine.

What are some of your favourite dishes to cook?

Savoury tarts and quiches, because they have many adaptations. Also, vegetable dishes; like ratatouille or tian. Comforting winter casseroles, too, like tartiflette and daube Provençale. As for dessert, I love to bake decadent cakes and cookies.

Where’s your favourite French region for food?

Provence, in the South of France. With its Mediterranean influences, it’s definitely my go-to cuisine. However, I like to discover all the country’s regional delights and am planning to offer a French culinary tour on my blog.

Who’s your main inspiration in the culinary world?

French chef Alain Passard’s creativity with vegetables is incredible. I also like books about French gastronomy. For English readers, I’d recommend

France! [by Francois-regis Gaudry].

Where’s on your culinary wishlist?

I lived in Japan a long time ago and I want to go back to do an in-depth culinary tour. I also love Thai and Lebanese cuisines and would like to discover more about them.