Bienvenue to La Marmite!

But of greater interest to us here is Campion's treatment of French food. He spent 35 years in France, part of it as a restaurant critic, and definitely knows his stuff. Crime Fraiche takes place mostly in the Normandy region of France and along the way we are introduced to some of the specialities of this grassy green slice of France. Campion's mystery will definitely get your mouth watering.

Here are a few of the specialities he introduces.

Crime Fraiche (Fresh Crime)

Hanging Out in Normandy

This is a thick, velvety, slightly tangy, slightly nutty cream that can be used in a myriad of different ways. It is truly a cornerstone of French cooking, or at least the cooking in the northern half of the country.

And no place knows their creme fraiche better than Normandy. The creme fraiche d'Isigny is one of the very few non-cheese, dairy products to be awarded an AOC (Appelation d'origine controlee) in France. Of course these days you are likely to find creme fraiche further and further away from France, and you may even find it in your grocery store.

Learn more about creme fraiche including how to make your own: creme fraiche recipe.

Livarot Cheese

Livarot and Calvados

Despite its smell, Livarot is fabulous and definitely worth trying. If you have had Munster cheese, then you will know sort of what to expect from Livarot. They are both soft, washed-rind cheeses that have excellent flavor and the added bonus of being good melters - great for recipes.

Livarot is made in Normandy, just like its more famous cousin Camembert. Learn more here: Livarot cheese.

Calvados Brandy

More Hanging Out in Normandy

Most of the social events in Crime Fraiche, including several hunts for various game, involve quite a bit of Calvados. However, like any brandy, Calvados is made for slow sipping preferably by the fire, so I am not recommending you take it on your next hunting expedition.

Calvados has a definite apple aroma and the higher quality brandies are smooth and inviting. It is also a great brandy to cook with and will give a kiss of apple to whatever you are making. You can learn a little more about Calvados on this page: types of brandy.

Mushroom Gathering

I am sorry to say that I know nothing on the subject myself, having never taken to the woods with basket in hand. However, I did think that you might find it interesting that in France part of a pharmacist's training is to be able to identify mushrooms. If you are in doubt about the identify of a fungus, you can always receive guidance at the pharmacy.

What's New on EFF?

• Gateau nantais - Oh boy, this is a yummy one and very easy to make. For rum lovers only: Rum Cake Recipe.

• Chou-fleur vinaigrette - People are not big fans of cauliflower chez moi (what is wrong with them?), but they liked this one. Steamed cauliflower topped with chopped eggs, parsley and a vinaigrette.

• Les gateaux - Not feeling inspired to cook? I understand. Here you can just drool: French cakes.

If you are in the mood for a little mystery along with your French food, don't forget to have a look at Campion's book Crime Fraiche. I also liked his other "Capucine" mystery: The Grave Gourmet.

I am sorry that I have been very irregular with the newsletter lately. I really loved hearing from everyone that noticed I hadn't written. Hopefully by thinking of you I will get back on track.

A bientot!

Your friend in France,

Kim

P.S. For all of you sharp eyed readers: I apologize for the lack of accents in the newsletter. I find they do not always display correctly in emails.