French Country Cooking

What is it that makes everything taste better in the French countryside? Perhaps the whiff from the doorways of quaint country restaurants, that makes our mouths water before we know we are hungry. Or is it the way produce is displayed in shop windows, so intriguing, and what exactly is it? Could it be the walk through the country markets where everything is fresh from the farms- so plump and just picked? But then again, we have already tasted that simple "plat du jour" in every cafe on every corner, "whipped up", we might say, without effort! We know from experience it is going to be "scrumptious" ! To be truly honest "oh so inviting" country ambiance, adds an important dash to the pot! Let's say then, its a total recipe!

Where better to learn tantalizing French country cooking secrets than in the cradle of creativity and with the country chefs themselves?

Enjoy this creative cooking week in the intriguing French kitchens, with the focus on different specialties and variety in the courses. Picnic lunches or chef's "taster lunches" will be organized on scheduled class days.

Side excursions will include:

*Two visits to the country markets of Fontainebleau (Thursday, Friday or Sunday) and the medieval market on Thursday at Milly La Foret.

*Afternoon visits will include local cheese producing farms and other favorite regional specialty locations.

*La Ronde des Abeilles in Provins -3 Rue des Beaux Arts. (01-60-67-65-97) has specialty cookies, jams, mustards, teas and potpourris made from rose petals. It also has specialties in honey produced by local bees.

*Moret sur Loing is renowned for barley sugar for guests with sweet tooths.

*An additional fun side trip to the chocolate factory in Nemours. Chocolaterie de Lis, where poppies are used for liqeurs and candies.

The Papillon Mignon staff can recommend special country restaurants for dinner in the delightful villages. Many of these are across wheat fields, through the towns, around bends, or by the banks of the Loing. We would recommend a driver to facilitate a relaxed return since taxis are not available. Please indicate if you would like to have us reserve a car and driver for the evening.

Au Revoir cocktail the final evening of your stay!

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