La Raffine

La Raffine

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Serving Fresh Figs

September 08, 2019 by Janet Carpenter in September

The season for figs is short. For a couple of weeks in mid-September I devour as many as I can. Sweet, fragrant and juicy, figs team up very well with other ingredients: honey, yoghurt and toasted nuts; fresh young goat's cheese; salty prosciutto; tangy blue cheeses and even anchovies.

You can buys figs in the market but it is best to eat them fresh from the tree if you can find one. Watch the country roads as they grow like weeds in Provence.

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September 08, 2019 /Janet Carpenter
La Raffine
September

Wild blackberries!

La Raffine
August 31, 2019 by Janet Carpenter in September, August

Wild blackberry bushes can be found on many country roads in the region. We have a hedge the full length of the property and each year we enjoy the wild berries at the end of August. Smaller and less sweet than the commercially cultivated varieties, I prefer the taste and feel a primal satisfaction each year as I collect my daily rations. In the 15th century they were served as an hors d’oeuvre with sugar for dipping. Today a blackberry crumble is easy and delicious way to serve


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August 31, 2019 /Janet Carpenter
La Raffine
September, August
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A guide to garden tomatoes

August 31, 2019 by Janet Carpenter in July, August

The variety of tomatoes available in the Luberon is a joy to experience. I have my favourites and like to blend several different sorts in a brightly coloured tomato salad. Below is a guide to some of my favourites (including some of the minis we grow in our new potager) : red, orange, yellow, green and black and other heirloom tomatoes popular in the markets along with suggestions on how they are best served.

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August 31, 2019 /Janet Carpenter
La Raffine
July, August

The cherries are ripe for the picking

June 10, 2019 by Janet Carpenter in June

Cherry blossoms dot the landscape of the Luberon in early Spring.  By early June the trees are laden with ripe fruit. Cherries are loved fresh f but also in jams, conserves, liqueurs, and desserts. Apt is known for its candied cherries.

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June 10, 2019 /Janet Carpenter
La Raffine
June

discovering the delight of Green Almonds in May

May 06, 2019 by Janet Carpenter in May

May is the season to enjoy green almonds, a delicacy loved in the south. Eat them straight from the tree like a peach or dip the soft centre in salt or sugar for a delicious snack

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May 06, 2019 /Janet Carpenter
La Raffine
May