The Theme for October - The Family

The family is now more than ever a source of comfort, a fact that remains true despite the recession and the deep-seated changes that are changing what a family looks like. This is the conclusion drawn by a study from the Ipsos research institute.  For 83% of French people, the family has become “the main source of well being in everyday life.”   I guess that the other 17% think that delicious cheeses and great wine is the main source of well being!   Whatever....  I guess that they mean it is the glue that keeps us all together.   Here are my two "Glues" on a sourcing trip to Paris this Summer.

Vintage Linens add instant character

Vintage Linens can come in many forms.  Our favourites are the embroidered Sheets and hand towels.  Use two vintage linen sheets to make a truly special duvet cover.

Simple French Cooking at its BEST

Roast Potatoes in Duck Fat and Garlic

Put a roasting tin in the oven (one big enough to take the potatoes in a single layer) and heat oven to 400 degrees.   Break apart an entire large clove of garlic, leaving the skins on.  Soak it all in warm water

Peel the potatoes and cut each into 4 even-sized pieces if they are medium size, 2-3 if smaller (5cm pieces).  Sip your glass of French Wine!   Drop the potatoes into a large saucepan and pour in enough water to barely cover them. Add salt, then wait for the water to boil.  As soon as the water reaches a full rolling boil, lower the heat, put your timer on and simmer the potatoes uncovered, reasonably vigorously, for 2 mins. The potatoes should not be fully cooked!

Put your choice of duck fat into the hot roasting tin and heat it in the oven for a few mins, so it's really hot.

Drain the potatoes in a colander. Now it's time to rough them up a bit - shake the colander back and forth a few times to fluff up the outsides. Carefully put the potatoes into the hot fat - they will sizzle as they go in - then turn and roll them around so they are coated all over in the duck fat.  Spread them in a single layer making sure they have plenty of room.  Grind sea salt and black pepper over them. Add the moisened garlic pieces.

Roast the potatoes for 15 mins, then take them out of the oven and turn them over. Roast for another 15 mins and turn them over again. Put them back in the oven for another 10-20 mins, or however long it takes to get them really golden and crisp. The colouring will be uneven, which is what you want. Scatter with salt again to taste and transfer to your beautiful Gratin dish! Serve straight away.

French Furniture Promotion

Until supplies last, we are offering a huge saving on Hand Carved, solid wood French Country Dining Sets.  These pieces are imported exclusively by Jackryn France.  They are hand painted with an exquisite patina that will lend itself to any decor; from classic when you use several pieces - to Uber modern when you choose only one substantial piece. 
CLICK ON - http://www.jackryn.com/NewOnSale

Bring the Style and Quality of Europe into your Home!