French Cuisine at Home
French cuisine is synonymous with elegance, rich flavours, and culinary mastery.
For many, enjoying traditional French dishes means visiting a high-end restaurant. Our guest writer Miles Phillips explains how, thanks to Mustard Foods, restaurant-quality French cuisine can be savoured from the comfort of your home. Mustard Foods offers a wide range of high quality, ready-to-serve French dishes that are not only delicious but these listed below are also gluten-free. Let’s explore the delights of French cuisine and the history behind some of these iconic dishes.
Boeuf Bourguignon
History and Interesting Facts
Boeuf Bourguignon, a rich, flavourful dish, hails from the Burgundy region of France. This dish has its roots in the Middle Ages when it was a peasant dish. The long cooking process made tougher cuts of meat tender and infused with the deep flavours of red wine and aromatic vegetables. Over time, Boeuf Bourguignon has evolved into a celebrated dish, especially after being popularised by Julia Child in her book "Mastering the Art of French Cooking."
Mustard Foods’ Take
Mustard Food’s Boeuf Bourguignon features British beef slow-cooked in red wine with pancetta, mushrooms, and baby onions. The result is a melt-in-the-mouth experience that captures the essence of traditional French cooking. With Mustard Foods, you can enjoy this classic without spending hours in the kitchen.
Coq au Vin
History and Interesting Facts
Coq au Vin, which translates to "rooster in wine," is another iconic French dish with a rustic origin. Traditionally, it was a way to cook older, tougher birds, using the wine to tenderise the meat. The dish is steeped in regional variations, with the most famous being from Burgundy, where red wine is used. The dish’s popularity soared in the 20th century, again thanks to Julia Child, who introduced it to American home cooks.
Mustard Foods’ Take
Mustard Foods’ Coq au Vin is made with boneless chicken thigh braised in red wine with pancetta, mushrooms, and carrots. This version preserves the rich, hearty flavours of the traditional dish while making it accessible for a quick and convenient meal at home.
French Onion Soup
History and Interesting Facts
French Onion Soup is a classic example of French culinary ingenuity. Originating as a humble dish for the poor, it dates back to Roman times. The modern version, with caramelised onions and beef broth topped with toasted bread and melted cheese, emerged in the 18th century. It became a staple in Parisian bistros and gained international fame as a symbol of French comfort food.
Mustard Foods’ Take
Mustard Foods’ French Onion Soup is a vegan caramelised onion soup that retains the traditional rich and sweet flavours of slow-cooked onions. Enjoying this heartwarming soup is now easier than ever, with Mustard Food’s ready-to-heat option.
Mushroom Soup
History and Interesting Facts
Mushroom soup has a more contemporary history compared to some other French dishes. It gained popularity in the 19th and 20th centuries, especially in regions rich in wild mushrooms. French cuisine often features mushrooms, celebrated for their earthy flavours and versatility.
Mustard Foods’ Take
Mustard Foods’ Mushroom Soup is creamy and infused with thyme, highlighting the natural flavours of the mushrooms. This gluten-free soup is perfect for a cozy meal, bringing the taste of French countryside kitchens to your home.
Provençale Chicken
History and Interesting Facts
Provençale Chicken is inspired by the flavours of Provence, a region known for its aromatic herbs and vibrant cuisine. This dish typically features tomatoes, olives, garlic, and fresh herbs like basil and thyme. The use of these ingredients reflects the Mediterranean influences on Provençal cooking.
Mustard Foods’ Take
Mustard Foods’ Provençal Chicken includes boneless chicken thigh in a tomato sauce with kidney beans, courgettes, and basil. This dish embodies the sunny flavours of Provence and offers a delightful, lighter option for any meal.
Steak Diane
History and Interesting Facts
Steak Diane is a relatively modern dish, believed to have originated in the mid-20th century in New York City, yet it has a French-inspired flair. Named after Diana, the Roman goddess of the hunt, the dish is typically flambéed with brandy, creating a dramatic presentation.
Mustard Food’s Take
Mustard Foods’ Steak Diane features British beef in a cream sauce with mushrooms, brandy, and Dijon mustard. This dish brings a touch of restaurant elegance to your dining table, with all the bold flavours and creamy textures you would expect from a classic French sauce.
Enjoying French Cuisine at Home
Mustard Foods makes it easy to enjoy French cuisine without the need for extensive cooking skills or time. Here are some tips to make the most of your at-home French dining experience:
- Pairing with Wine: Each of these dishes can be wonderfully complemented by French wines. For Boeuf Bourguignon and Coq au Vin, consider a full-bodied red wine from Burgundy. For lighter dishes like Provençale Chicken, a crisp white wine or a rosé from Provence would be perfect.
- Setting the Scene: To enhance your dining experience, set your table with French flair. Use simple, elegant tableware, light some candles, and play some soft French music in the background.
- Side Dishes: While Mustard Foods’ dishes are the main component in the meal, adding fresh vegetables and potatoes or a simple side salad with a classic French vinaigrette and some crusty bread can round out the meal.
- Desserts: For a complete French meal, consider adding a traditional French dessert like crème brûlée, tarte tatin, or a selection of cheeses.
- Storing and Serving: Mustard Foods’ dishes are designed for convenience. Delivered frozen to your door. Follow the storage and reheating instructions provided to ensure that you enjoy the flavours at their best.
Conclusion
French cuisine is renowned for its rich flavours, culinary sophistication, and historical significance. With Mustard Foods, you can bring the charm and elegance of French dining into your home with minimal effort. Their range of gluten-free, restaurant-quality dishes like Boeuf Bourguignon, Coq au Vin, French Onion Soup, Mushroom Soup, Provençale Chicken, and Steak Diane ensures that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests, enjoy a romantic dinner, or simply indulge in gourmet meals without the hassle, Mustard Foods offers the perfect solution. Explore the variety and convenience of Mustard Foods’ French cuisine offerings and elevate your home dining experience to new heights. Bon appétit!