Whisk Wednesdays :: Pintadeaux du Chou

Finally! I am posting my first Whisk Wednesday assignment. I received the book, Le Cordon Bleu at Home, from my amazing husband for Christmas so that I could join the group and learn the art of French cuisine. We do a lesson from the book each week and post on Wednesdays.  If you are interested in joining the group, check it out over at Shari’s blog. This week we started with the poultry classes and prepared Pintadeaux du Chou, or Guinea Hen with Cabbage.  Yum.  It was such a cozy meal, like I imagine little French grandmothers cooking mid-century meals for their families.  And, I got to use my new dutch oven – a Christmas gift from my lovely mama.

I expected the hens to become a little more golden and crispy from the roasting, but the tender birds did not disappoint – I can still hear my husband smacking his lips and sucking the bones clean.  The only thing I did not follow strictly was the use of bacon – too salty for us – and instead of Bouquet Garni, I used my homemade Herbes de Provence.  I realize this altered the flavor, but what I’m personally concerned about is gaining a working knowledge of French cooking methods. All in all, it was a simple recipe and a great way to kick off my participation in Whisk Wednesdays.  Can’t wait for next week – Fricassée de Poulet à l’ail et à la Sauge (Chicken Fricassee with Garlic and Sage)!