Fabulously Delicious: The French Food Podcast

Revisit Capon with Emily Gaudichon

As Christmas approaches, Fabulously Delicious, The French Food Podcast revisits a beautifully seasonal episode all about capon, one of the most traditional centrepieces of the French festive table. This replay is shared especially for listeners who may have missed it the first time — or who would love to rediscover a classic Christmas conversation.

In this episode, host Andrew Prior is joined by Emily Gaudichon, widely known as the real Emily in Paris, for an engaging and informative discussion about what capon really is, why it holds such an important place in French Christmas celebrations, and how it differs from everyday poultry.

Originally recorded earlier in the podcast’s journey, this episode is replayed in full, with no new material added — simply a chance to enjoy a timely, festive conversation that feels perfectly suited to the season. It’s a reminder of how deeply French food traditions are tied to celebration, family, and the rhythm of the year.

Whether you’re planning a French-inspired Christmas menu or simply curious about the foods that define festive tables in France, this Christmas replay offers insight, context, and plenty of fabulously delicious food talk to enjoy during the holidays.

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My book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City is your ultimate companion. This is a new 2026 update for the book and you’ll find hand-picked recommendations for the best boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, cafés, and restaurants that truly capture the flavor of Paris. You can order it online at andrewpriorfabulously.com 

For those who want to take things further, why not come cook with me here in Montmorillon, in the heart of France’s Vienne region? Combine hands-on French cooking classes with exploring charming markets, tasting regional specialties, and soaking up the slow, beautiful pace of French countryside life. Find all the details at andrewpriorfabulously.com

You can help keep the show thriving by becoming a paid subscriber on substack where you'll also get fabulous extra content. Every contribution makes a huge difference. Join here at Substack , Merci beaucoup!

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From Forest to Feast: The Story of French Châtaignes

In this deliciously autumnal episode of Fabulously Delicious, we dive deep into the world of châtaignes, France’s beloved chestnuts. From their prickly forest shells to their fragrant, comforting presence in winter markets, châtaignes have long been a symbol of warmth, heritage, and rustic French cooking. But these humble nuts hold far more than nostalgia — they carry centuries of history, culture, and culinary transformation.

We explore the fascinating botanical identity of the châtaigne, uncovering what makes it unique, how it differs from marrons, and why its reputation has evolved over time. You’ll discover how chestnuts sustained entire regions, earned the nickname “the bread tree,” and became essential to rural life across the Cévennes, Ardèche, Limousin, and beyond. From ancient cultivation to nineteenth-century culinary refinement, the journey of the châtaigne is as rich as its flavour.

Then, we turn our attention to the gastronomy of chestnuts. Whether roasted on street corners, puréed into velvety crème de marrons, transformed into the iconic Mont-Blanc dessert, or baked into festive dishes at Christmas, châtaignes play a starring role in French food culture. We’ll explore regional specialties, traditional methods of preservation, and the craftsmanship that turns a simple nut into a seasonal delicacy.

Finally, we travel across France to celebrate the festivals, terroirs, and AOP traditions that honour this treasured ingredient. From the chestnut groves of Ardèche to the proud heritage of the Marron de Lyon, to vibrant autumn gatherings in Collobrières and Redon, you’ll get a taste of the communities that keep the chestnut spirit alive. Whether you’re a longtime lover of chestnuts or discovering them for the first time, this episode is a feast of stories, culture, and flavour — straight from the forests of France to your plate.

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My book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City is your ultimate companion. This is a new 2026 update for the book and you’ll find hand-picked recommendations for the best boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, cafés, and restaurants that truly capture the flavor of Paris. You can order it online at andrewpriorfabulously.com 

For those who want to take things further, why not come cook with me here in Montmorillon, in the heart of France’s Vienne region? Combine hands-on French cooking classes with exploring charming markets, tasting regional specialties, and soaking up the slow, beautiful pace of French countryside life. Find all the details at andrewpriorfabulously.com

You can help keep the show thriving by becoming a paid subscriber on substack where you'll also get fabulous extra content. Every contribution makes a huge difference. Join here at Substack , Merci beaucoup!

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Revisit A to Z of French Herbs - Black Elder - Sureau Noir

Black Elder—Sureau Noir in French—is a plant woven deeply into European history, folklore, and cuisine. In this Revisit Sunday episode, we return to this remarkable shrub to explore its botanical roots, from its Latin name Sambucus nigra to its preference for sunny spots and its striking transformation through the seasons. Once you know its glossy black berries and fragrant ivory flowers, it’s hard not to spot elder everywhere.

Beyond the garden, Black Elder has played an important role in traditional medicine and ancient beliefs. Romans, Greeks, Celts, pagans, and medieval Europeans all attributed powerful qualities to the plant. From druidic flutes used to converse with spirits to the charming myth of Hylde-Moer, the Elder Mother who guarded the tree, elder has long been surrounded by mystery, reverence, and a touch of magic.

Of course, elder’s culinary life is just as fascinating. While the raw berries may be poisonous, cooked elderberry finds its way into jams, jellies, wines, soups, and syrups across Europe. The flowers shine even brighter, giving us elderflower cordial, fritters, and the iconic French liqueur St-Germain—created from delicately harvested elder blossoms in the Savoie region and now beloved worldwide in cocktails and cuisine.

In this episode, we revisit all of this and more: the legends, the history, the flavor, and the enduring cultural presence of Black Elder. Whether you know elder from your garden, your pantry, or your favourite cocktail glass, this episode is a delightful journey into the past and present of one of France and Europe’s most storied plants.

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My book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City is your ultimate companion. This is a new 2026 update for the book and you’ll find hand-picked recommendations for the best boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, cafés, and restaurants that truly capture the flavor of Paris. You can order it online at andrewpriorfabulously.com 

For those who want to take things further, why not come cook with me here in Montmorillon, in the heart of France’s Vienne region? Combine hands-on French cooking classes with exploring charming markets, tasting regional specialties, and soaking up the slow, beautiful pace of French countryside life. Find all the details at andrewpriorfabulously.com

You can help keep the show thriving by becoming a paid subscriber on substack where you'll also get fabulous extra content. Every contribution makes a huge difference. Join here at Substack , Merci beaucoup!

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La Tour d’Argent: Paris’s Legendary Duck Restaurant

Few restaurants in the world can claim the history, mystique, and prestige of La Tour d’Argent, the Parisian institution famous for its iconic pressed duck, breathtaking views over the Seine, and centuries-old legacy. In this episode of Fabulously Delicious, we step inside one of France’s most storied dining rooms to uncover the truth, the legends, and the extraordinary craftsmanship behind this culinary landmark.

We explore the restaurant’s beginnings in the late 1500s, when a chef named Rourteau established the original inn that would grow — over generations — into La Tour d’Argent. From the early royal patrons who dined there to the dramatic changes brought by Parisian history, the restaurant’s journey is as rich as the dishes it serves. You’ll learn about its many claimed addresses, the stories behind its shimmering name, and how it became a destination for gourmands around the world.

This episode also dives deep into the personalities who shaped La Tour d’Argent: Frédéric Delair, the man who invented the legend of the numbered ducks; André Terrail, who redefined the restaurant in the early 20th century; Claude Terrail, who carried it through war and into global fame; and André Terrail II, who steers the restaurant today. Along the way, we uncover the secrets of its extraordinary wine cellar, explore its signature dishes, and celebrate the celebrities, artists, leaders, and food lovers who have all found their way to its tables.

From Michelin stars to royal anecdotes, theatrical tableside preparations to timeless Parisian elegance, La Tour d’Argent is more than a restaurant — it’s a living chapter of French culinary history. Join Andrew as he brings this remarkable story to life, one delicious detail at a time.

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Support the show

My book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City is your ultimate companion. This is a new 2026 update for the book and you’ll find hand-picked recommendations for the best boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, cafés, and restaurants that truly capture the flavor of Paris. You can order it online at andrewpriorfabulously.com 

For those who want to take things further, why not come cook with me here in Montmorillon, in the heart of France’s Vienne region? Combine hands-on French cooking classes with exploring charming markets, tasting regional specialties, and soaking up the slow, beautiful pace of French countryside life. Find all the details at andrewpriorfabulously.com

You can help keep the show thriving by becoming a paid subscriber on substack where you'll also get fabulous extra content. Every contribution makes a huge difference. Join here at Substack , Merci beaucoup!

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Périgord: The Land of Truffles, Duck, and Autumn Riches

Discover the flavours of one of France’s most delicious regions — the Périgord. In this episode of Fabulously Delicious: The French Food Podcast, host Andrew Prior takes you on a mouthwatering journey through the heart of southwest France, where truffles, foie gras, walnuts, and duck reign supreme. From rustic markets to Michelin-starred kitchens, the Périgord is a region where food isn’t just sustenance — it’s a way of life.

We’ll explore the iconic ingredients that have made Périgord famous: the earthy black truffle, the luxurious foie gras, golden walnuts and chestnuts, and the sweet Périgord strawberries that capture the taste of summer. Discover traditional dishes like confit de canard, pommes de terre sarladaises, and tarte aux noix — recipes passed down through generations and still celebrated on tables across France today.

Along the way, we’ll meet some of the region’s most inspiring chefs and restaurants — from Vincent Arnould’s refined Michelin-starred creations to the elegant riverside dining at Le Moulin de l’Abbaye. Plus, we’ll visit the vibrant food festivals that bring the community together each year, celebrating everything from truffles and walnuts to Monbazillac wines and local liqueurs.

Whether you’re dreaming of a trip to France or simply love learning about French food culture, this episode will transport you to the rolling hills, bustling markets, and rich flavours of the Périgord. So pour a glass of wine, grab a slice of crusty bread, and join Andrew for another fabulously delicious adventure through the tastes and traditions of France.

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Support the show

My book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City is your ultimate companion. This is a new 2026 update for the book and you’ll find hand-picked recommendations for the best boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, cafés, and restaurants that truly capture the flavor of Paris. You can order it online at andrewpriorfabulously.com 

For those who want to take things further, why not come cook with me here in Montmorillon, in the heart of France’s Vienne region? Combine hands-on French cooking classes with exploring charming markets, tasting regional specialties, and soaking up the slow, beautiful pace of French countryside life. Find all the details at andrewpriorfabulously.com

You can help keep the show thriving by becoming a paid subscriber on substack where you'll also get fabulous extra content. Every contribution makes a huge difference. Join here at Substack , Merci beaucoup!

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Revisit A to Z of French Herbs - Bay Leaves - Feuilles de Laurier

In this week’s Revisit Sunday episode of Fabulously Delicious: The French Food Podcast, we’re returning to one of the most essential herbs in French cooking — the beautifully aromatic Bay Leaf, or feuille de laurier. Often overlooked yet always present, this humble leaf has been quietly flavouring French soups, stews, and sauces for centuries.

Host Andrew Prior takes us back through the history and culinary magic of the Bay Leaf, exploring its place in the traditional bouquet garni, its symbolic meaning in French culture, and why chefs from Michelin-starred kitchens to rustic French farmhouses swear by its subtle but powerful aroma.

From Provence to Paris, the Bay Leaf connects generations of French cooks through its versatility and depth of flavour. Whether it’s simmering in a comforting pot-au-feu, adding warmth to a daube provençale, or bringing complexity to a creamy béchamel, this herb proves that sometimes the quietest ingredients make the loudest impact.

So pour yourself a glass of wine, grab a piece of baguette, and join Andrew for a deliciously fragrant journey into the world of Bay Leaves — a reminder that in French cuisine, even the smallest touch can make something truly fabulously delicious.

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Support the show

My book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City is your ultimate companion. This is a new 2026 update for the book and you’ll find hand-picked recommendations for the best boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, cafés, and restaurants that truly capture the flavor of Paris. You can order it online at andrewpriorfabulously.com 

For those who want to take things further, why not come cook with me here in Montmorillon, in the heart of France’s Vienne region? Combine hands-on French cooking classes with exploring charming markets, tasting regional specialties, and soaking up the slow, beautiful pace of French countryside life. Find all the details at andrewpriorfabulously.com

You can help keep the show thriving by becoming a paid subscriber on substack where you'll also get fabulous extra content. Every contribution makes a huge difference. Join here at Substack , Merci beaucoup!

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The Story of Charles Ranhofer

Step into the dazzling world of 19th-century haute cuisine with this episode of Fabulously Delicious: The French Food Podcast, as we uncover the extraordinary life of Charles Ranhofer — the French chef who brought elegance, artistry, and refinement to America’s dining scene. Born in Saint-Denis, France, in 1836, Ranhofer rose from a young pastry apprentice in Paris to become the celebrated head chef at Delmonico’s Restaurant in New York City, the most famous restaurant in the United States at the time. His journey is one of ambition, creativity, and the enduring influence of French gastronomy on American fine dining.

At Delmonico’s, Ranhofer became a culinary legend. He created and popularized iconic dishes such as Lobster Newbergand Baked Alaska, while naming others after the greats of his day — from Charles Dickens to Sarah Bernhardt and President Grover Cleveland. With every dish, he combined French precision with theatrical flair, making dining at Delmonico’s an experience unlike any other. He didn’t just cook meals — he told stories on a plate, transforming each course into a celebration of art, culture, and history.

Ranhofer’s genius extended beyond the kitchen. In 1894, he published The Epicurean, an enormous 1,000-page Franco-American culinary encyclopedia that revealed the secrets of fine French cookery to a new world of chefs and home cooks. Comparable in scope to Auguste Escoffier’s Le Guide Culinaire, this monumental work cemented his place as one of the most influential chefs of the 19th century. His dedication to refinement and innovation helped define how America came to understand and appreciate French cuisine.

In this episode, host Andrew Prior takes you through the life, legacy, and lasting impact of Charles Ranhofer — from his early days in Saint-Denis to his grand banquets for presidents and princes. Discover how this remarkable French chef shaped American gastronomy, inspired generations of cooks, and left behind a legacy that continues to influence how we dine today. So pour yourself a glass of wine, slice a piece of fine cheese, and join us as we celebrate the fabulous story of Charles Ranhofer — the man who made America fall

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Support the show

My book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City is your ultimate companion. This is a new 2026 update for the book and you’ll find hand-picked recommendations for the best boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, cafés, and restaurants that truly capture the flavor of Paris. You can order it online at andrewpriorfabulously.com 

For those who want to take things further, why not come cook with me here in Montmorillon, in the heart of France’s Vienne region? Combine hands-on French cooking classes with exploring charming markets, tasting regional specialties, and soaking up the slow, beautiful pace of French countryside life. Find all the details at andrewpriorfabulously.com

You can help keep the show thriving by becoming a paid subscriber on substack where you'll also get fabulous extra content. Every contribution makes a huge difference. Join here at Substack , Merci beaucoup!

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En Croûte: When the French Wrap Food in Pastry

What could be more delightfully French than taking something delicious, wrapping it in buttery pastry, and baking it to golden perfection? In this episode of Fabulously Delicious: The French Food Podcast, we unwrap the story behind one of France’s most elegant and enduring culinary techniques — en croûte. From beef and salmon to vegetables and even cheese, en croûte is the art of encasing food in pastry to create something that’s as beautiful to behold as it is delicious to eat.

We’ll explore the fascinating history of this technique — from its humble medieval beginnings as a way to preserve and protect food, to its transformation into a symbol of French refinement and celebration. You’ll hear how legendary chefs like Marie-Antoine Carême turned en croûte into edible art, and how the tradition has continued to evolve in modern French kitchens, from Michelin-starred restaurants to village boulangeries.

Along the way, we’ll uncover the secrets behind a perfect golden crust, talk about famous dishes that owe their success to this technique (yes, even the beloved Beef Wellington), and celebrate the creativity that makes en croûte such a timeless part of French gastronomy. Whether you’re a home cook, a pastry lover, or simply curious about what’s hiding under that golden crust, this episode is for you.

So pour yourself a glass of wine, imagine the smell of buttery pastry wafting through the air, and join me, Andrew Prior, as we dive into the fabulously delicious world of En Croûte: When the French Wrap Food in Pastry.

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Support the show

My book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City is your ultimate companion. This is a new 2026 update for the book and you’ll find hand-picked recommendations for the best boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, cafés, and restaurants that truly capture the flavor of Paris. You can order it online at andrewpriorfabulously.com 

For those who want to take things further, why not come cook with me here in Montmorillon, in the heart of France’s Vienne region? Combine hands-on French cooking classes with exploring charming markets, tasting regional specialties, and soaking up the slow, beautiful pace of French countryside life. Find all the details at andrewpriorfabulously.com

You can help keep the show thriving by becoming a paid subscriber on substack where you'll also get fabulous extra content. Every contribution makes a huge difference. Join here at Substack , Merci beaucoup!

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Revisit A to Z of French Herbs - Basil - Basilic 

Basil, or basilic in French, is one of the world’s most beloved herbs, and in France it holds a particularly fascinating place in culinary history. Often called Herbes Royales — the Royal Herb — basil carries a name rooted in royalty, mythology, and legend. From its beginnings in India to its journey through the Roman Empire and eventual embrace in French cuisine, basil has always been more than just a kitchen staple; it’s a herb steeped in stories, tradition, and delicious flavor.

In this episode, we explore how basil became part of French cooking, thanks in part to Catherine de Medici and her Italian entourage, who introduced this fragrant herb to the French court. We’ll discover its many names, from Fabrego in Provence to Sweet Basil, Thai Basil, and even Purple Basil, each variety with its own unique aroma and culinary use. Along the way, you’ll learn how basil has been used not just in food, but also in religion, folklore, and even medicine.

Of course, no discussion of basil in France would be complete without talking about pistou — the Provençal cousin of pesto. We’ll dive into the story of this fragrant green sauce, how it differs from Italian pesto, and its starring role in traditional soupe au pistou, a comforting vegetable and noodle soup from Provence and the Côte d’Azur. Whether you’re cooking at home or dreaming of French markets filled with fragrant bunches of basil, this episode will transport you straight to the heart of Provence.

So, if you’ve ever wondered how basil found its way into French kitchens, why it’s called the Royal Herb, or how to use it in classic French dishes, this episode is for you. Join me as we revisit the story of basil and uncover why this humble green leaf is one of the most fabulously delicious herbs in French cuisine.

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Support the show

My book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City is your ultimate companion. This is a new 2026 update for the book and you’ll find hand-picked recommendations for the best boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, cafés, and restaurants that truly capture the flavor of Paris. You can order it online at andrewpriorfabulously.com 

For those who want to take things further, why not come cook with me here in Montmorillon, in the heart of France’s Vienne region? Combine hands-on French cooking classes with exploring charming markets, tasting regional specialties, and soaking up the slow, beautiful pace of French countryside life. Find all the details at andrewpriorfabulously.com

You can help keep the show thriving by becoming a paid subscriber on substack where you'll also get fabulous extra content. Every contribution makes a huge difference. Join here at Substack , Merci beaucoup!

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Wine, Shallots, and Magic: Reductions and Gastrique Sauces in French Cuisine

French cuisine is famous for its sauces, and in this final episode of Saucy September, we’re diving into two of the most magical techniques of all: reductions and gastriques. From silky wine sauces to tangy sweet-and-sour glazes, these methods are the secret behind some of France’s most beloved dishes. If you’ve ever wondered how a simple liquid can be transformed into a sauce that makes a dish sing, this episode is for you.

We’ll explore the art of the reduction — simmering wine, stock, or cream until it becomes concentrated and full of flavor. Discover how chefs use reductions to create iconic sauces like demi-glace, beurre blanc, and red wine reductions that pair perfectly with steak, duck, or fish. You’ll also learn the common mistakes to avoid and the little tips that make all the difference in achieving restaurant-quality results at home.

Then, we turn to gastriques: those irresistible sweet-and-sour sauces born from the alchemy of caramelized sugar and vinegar. Whether it’s the classic orange gastrique for canard à l’orange or modern versions with balsamic, raspberry, or even maple syrup, gastriques show the French genius for balance — cutting richness with acidity while adding layers of complexity. We’ll look at their history, their role in French haute cuisine, and how chefs today are reinventing them with creative twists.

As we wrap up Saucy September, this episode brings together history, technique, culture, and plenty of delicious inspiration. From Burgundy’s red wine reductions to the Loire Valley’s beurre blanc and beyond, reductions and gastriques are the sauces that truly embody French finesse. So grab a glass of wine, tear into a baguette, and join me for a fabulously delicious journey into the saucy heart of French cuisine.

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Support the show

My book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City is your ultimate companion. This is a new 2026 update for the book and you’ll find hand-picked recommendations for the best boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, cafés, and restaurants that truly capture the flavor of Paris. You can order it online at andrewpriorfabulously.com 

For those who want to take things further, why not come cook with me here in Montmorillon, in the heart of France’s Vienne region? Combine hands-on French cooking classes with exploring charming markets, tasting regional specialties, and soaking up the slow, beautiful pace of French countryside life. Find all the details at andrewpriorfabulously.com

You can help keep the show thriving by becoming a paid subscriber on substack where you'll also get fabulous extra content. Every contribution makes a huge difference. Join here at Substack , Merci beaucoup!

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