Thursday, January 21, 2010

How The Crepe Is Used In French Cooking

By Claire Benoit

French cooking is seen by many as beyond the skills of the average cook. Yet many of these culinary concoctions have gained popularity worldwide because of their versatility and universal appeal. One that comes to mind is one of France's most popular dishes, the crepe. Mostly known as a dessert snack, this ultra thin pancake wrap can be served in several different of ways, and as both a sweet and savory dish. In fact, the crepe makes perfect sense for any meal of the day.

Served Sweet

Nearly all of the "sweet" varieties are served either for breakfast or as an after dinner treat.

The nutella crepe is filled with a hazelnut chocolate spread along with a dash of powdered sugar. This may seem like a dessert, but it's actually a quite popular breakfast item. The French usually prefer to keep their morning meals light.

For a typically French dessert, there is the Suzette. This delicacy is doused in Grand Marnier and garnished with a dollop of whipped cream. This too can be served with coffee or perhaps an after-dinner cordial.

Savory

Considering that it is merely a wrap in its bare form, this delicacy is ideal for experimentation. It's for this very reason that so many cooks and diners have grown to love it served as a savory dish.

As for meat lover entrees, chefs have been known create them with fish, chicken, beef and pork. Just about everything really. There isn't a classic savory version per se, as with the sweet, but some menus include Bacon and Mushroom or Chicken Pesto as well as Salmon.

There are less heavy options available as well. It wouldn't be French unless cheese was allowed to make an appearance and it has throughout a range of recipes. Vegetable fillings such as spinach and leeks have become a popular inclusion as well for those seeking a healthier snack.

The Versatile Dish

With such versatility, it would be hard to imagine anyone disliking this delicacy. Certainly in the context of French cooking, it has evolved into so many creations that there has to be at least one that satisfies any diner's cravings. There's no mystery why it's a culinary favorite and no doubt that its variations will only continue to grow.

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