A Taste of France

French cuisine is known all over the world for its elegance, style and first class taste. Their dishes have a level of sophistication associated with it that can make anyone feel like they are dining with royalty.

A popular phrase associated with French food is “la crème de la crème” which means the dish is exceptional and prepared at its very best. What separates French cuisine from the rest is the chefs need for high quality, ultra fresh ingredients, and their attention and care in preparation stage of the meal.

The taste of France I am going to share with you is a delicious French Crepe. The word Crepe (pronounced Krape) derives from the Latin word crispa meaning curled. This name came from the way it is served, folded over to almost look like it is curled up. It was originally introduced in a northwestern region of France but quickly spread to be a nationwide treat!

How is it made?

A Crepe is most simply described as a thin pancake and can be prepared almost any way you’d like! A Crepe is prepared by pouring a thin layer of usually wheat flour batter onto a circular hot plate then spread out evenly with a spatula. The batter is flipped once and fully cooked in a matter of minutes.

How is it served?

There are two categories of Crepes that can be served, sweet and savory. The most common way a Crepe is served is as a simple pancake with powdered sugar and a touch of syrup.

Sweet Crepes are usually eaten as breakfast or dessert. This style of crepe can include anything ranging from fresh fruit such as strawberries and banana’s to Nutella, whipped cream and honey. Anything you want can be combined to create a Crepe filled with all your favorite sweets.

A savory Crepe does not include sweet treats. These Crepes act more as a meal and can be almost anything. I’ve seen breakfast Crepes stuffed with eggs, bacon, sausage, and cheese. I’ve seen lunch and dinner Crepes stuffed with everything you’d find in a taco, potatoes, vegetables, salad, and even chicken and mushroom fillings.

How do I get it?

Crepes have become very popular all over Europe. Here in America a Crepe is much harder to come across, especially savory Crepes. You can only find Crepes in authentic French restaurants and most often they only have sweet Crepes.

If you are interested in trying a Crepe you may have to call a few restaurants first to check so you don’t show up hoping they serve Crepes when they don’t, but believe me it is definitely worth the extra effort.

My absolute favorite Crepes are sweet Crepes with Nutella and banana filling sprinkled with a little powdered sugar on top. Yummm it makes my mouth water just thinking about it.

If you have never tried a Crepe you are definitely missing out! This is a delicious French dish that is a MUST HAVE!