If it’s Friday, it must be France …
If you are in France, it’s again time to celebrate … oui … bien sûr … more food! Don’t you love it? This time it’s all about a rich, almond cream (frangipane) enveloped by layers of light, flaky pastry (feuilleté).
Another joyful opportunity to bring friends and family around the table to share La Galette des Rois/The Kings’ Cake, takes place on the first Sunday of January or January 6th and recognizes Epiphany, the arrival of the three wise men (Magis). This special pastry’s history can be traced to Roman times.
During the French Revolution, the name was replaced with ‘Gâteau de l’Égalité’ (equality cake), as the word ‘king’ was a little out of fashion!
It’s so popular, many patisseries make the scrumptious cake through the entire month of January.
The cake is cut in the specific number of slices for the people present, with one extra symbolic slice for the first poor person passing by. The youngest child (or the most innocent adult, if no children are present, which can result in great hilarity) goes under the table and calls out who will receive each slice to ensure fair distribution. The greatest excitement comes when one person discovers la fève (a lucky charm) hidden in a single slice.
Bon appétit!
Click here to read an excellent account of the history and traditions of this special fête by my friend, Margo Lestz.
And speaking of food, have you signed up for the BECOME A FRENCH FOODIE IN 30 DAYS course with eFrench Café? Check with Ida Young-Bondi and see if you can still squeeze in!
A timely reminder to make a galette, using my carefully husbanded fève … of a pompier! Happy New Year!
Margaret, you put me to shame. I would be dashing out to buy one! Is there a story behind your pompier fève? Bonne Année!
I’ve never had a king cake, but it’s getting to be that time of year here when they become especially popular (Mardi Gras). Perhaps this is the year I get my taste.
Happy Friday and Happy New Year!
Patricia Rickrode
w/a Jansen Schmidt
Do it! Just don’t break a tooth on la fève!
May 2017 be the best yet for you and yours!
Looks delicious!
Simple but delicious!
You are earlier than I am, Patricia! My galette isn’t baked yet. And my post still in my draft box. Thanks for the lovely reminder of a sweet tradition.
I’m sure yours was delicious. I’m being put to shame by all of you bakers!
Bonne fête!
Patricia – The cake is indeed delicious and it’s a good thing I’m this far away from having a large piece. I never learned the mode of having that delicate slice so many are capable of. Enjoy, my friend.
Sheri, you are too funny! Go ahead and have that large piece. Enjoy!
Rosca De Reyes is everywhere here in Spain! It is so good!!
The country may change but the sweets are pretty much the same. Enjoy the fiesta!