Amuse Bouche

From questioning the authenticity of a real Salade Niçoise to unravelling the origin of France’s stinkiest cheese, Boyd’s journey is as informative as it is entertaining. She dives deep into the peculiarities and traditions that define French food, such as the superiority of the sandy carrot’s flavour and the intriguing customs of the Brotherhood of the Knights of the Giant Omelette. Each of these elements is presented through 200 vignettes, creatively blending historical context, travel insights, and personal reflections. This structure invites the reader to savour the book in delightful, bite-sized portions.

The charm of Amuse Bouche lies not just in its rich content but also in its beautifully illustrated pages, making it a visual treat. Boyd's enthusiasm for French gastronomy is palpable, and her narrative is a joyous celebration of the foods and ingredients that make French cuisine world-renowned. As readers turn the pages, they will be drawn into the delightful world of French markets, rustic kitchens, and charming countryside bistros.

Michel Roux Jr. hails it as "A perfect balance of history, food, anecdotes, and recommendations... Carolyn's enthusiasm for French gastronomy is legendary." Equally captivated, Raymond Blanc describes the book as "Wondrous, witty, delicious, and fun. Every page made me hungry." Such praise highlights Boyd’s ability to transport readers directly into the heart of France’s culinary scene, making them yearn for a taste of its authentic flavours.

Whether you are a devoted Francophile or someone just beginning to explore French cuisine, Amuse Bouche serves as an invaluable guide. Its practical insights encourage readers to embark on their own culinary adventures, inspired by the traditions and tastes of France. This book isn’t just to be read; it’s to be devoured, each vignette a morsel savouring the essence of French food culture.