Cinq Things

Ah, summer in France. There’s that bike race, for one thing. Bastille Day. And Springsteen will be in Paris. What? You don’t have tickets? Stay home and help storm the Democratic National Convention Eastern State Penitentiary.

  1. Cornichons — From Roland Foods (Mt. Airy) and Three Little Pigs (Chestnut Hill). Sharp, fetching little gherkins that cuddle up to your paté.
  2. D’Artagnan Veal Demi Glacé — From Union, NJ. A key flavor booster for sauces and soups. Uses bones from humanely-raised veal calves.
  3. French green lentils — a/k/a lentilles du Puy. They take less time to cook and have a slightly earthy taste. In bulk in both stores.
  4. South of France bar soaps — Made in Erlanger, KY, about 4,500 miles west of Marseille. Kettle-cooked in small batches with all-natural vegetable ingredients.
  5. Madrange Jambon de Paris — Now made in Quebec. Well marbled, brine injected. At both deli counters.