Paola Westbeek

farinata with butternut squash, radicchio and sage

Farinata with roasted butternut squash, radicchio & sage

Hailing from Liguria and Tuscany, the farinata (‘cecina’ in Italian) may seem like a simple chickpea pancake, but when properly prepared, it is a true culinary delight that proves there’s beauty in simplicity. Traditionally baked in large pans in wood-fired ovens with minimal ingredients, this golden pancake has a creamy center and crispy edges. Farinata […]

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vegan steak tartare tomates

Tomato steak tartare

Tomato steak tartare Truth be told. As a Francophile, one of the things I missed most when I adopted a vegan diet was the simple pleasure of a beautifully made steak tartare, served or prepared with all the essential garnishes (crisp shallots, zesty capers, delicate herbs, the punchy hit of Worcestershire sauce and the heat

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vegan French vacation

Voyages Véganes: Exploring French Cuisine While on Vacation

For the discerning vegan traveler, navigating France’s gastronomic landscape may seem daunting. After all, the country is renowned for its buttery pastries, an extraordinary array of cheeses and iconic meat-based dishes such as the boeuf bourguignon. Add to that a love of offal and charcuterie-laden apéros, and it’s clear why vegans may be left wondering what’s in

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Roasted asparagus

Roasted asparagus with basil ‘Hollandaise’ & zesty pangrattato

Roasted asparagus Roasted asparagus are a treat, and with the advent of spring, there’s no better way to indulge than with the decadence of one of the season’s culinary superstars: white asparagus. Known as the ‘white gold’ (and with good reason!), asparagus is an elegant and nutritious ingredient that can be prepared in myriad ways.

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vegan Daube de "boeuf" à la provencale

Vegan Daube de “boeuf” à la provençale

Originating from the sunny Provence region, daube de boeuf Ã  la provençale is a traditional stew that has evolved from humble peasant fare to a celebrated dish synonymous with southern French gastronomy. The dish gets its name from the pan it was originally prepared in: the daubière, a deep, round or oval piece of earthenware used for braising. This equally

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