A Day in Provence, What My French Mom Eats

Provence, France, is a place where food and life blend seamlessly. I’m Patricia Seltyky and today let’s explore a day in the life of my French mom and her unique culinary traditions.

Breakfast, Starting Fresh

In the quiet morning light, my mom begins her day with a simple, nourishing breakfast. She starts with a bowl of creamy Greek yogurt.

She adds a sprinkle of muesli and a handful of goji berries. She then includes a spoonful of oats, half a banana, and some fresh blueberries. Each bite is a reminder of the wholesome goodness that nature offers.

Mid-Morning, a Refreshing Break

As the morning progresses, staying hydrated becomes essential. My mom prepares a refreshing drink with sliced cucumbers, limes, and grated ginger mixed into a jug of cool water.

This simple concoction is both revitalizing and full of subtle flavors, perfect for a sunny Provencal day.

Lunch, a Classic Salad Niçoise

Lunch is a colorful affair with a classic Salad Niçoise. My mom starts by boiling eggs and washing fresh lettuce. She slices a large tomato and a yellow bell pepper. The vibrant colors of these vegetables reflect the bright Provencal sun.

She makes simple vinaigrette with mustard, cider vinegar, and olive oil. Drizzling this over the salad, she then adds boiled eggs, tomatoes, and green beans.

Tuna and anchovies provide a savory touch. Finally, a few slices of warm baguette complete the meal. This salad is not just food, but it’s a celebration of fresh- local ingredients.

Each element of the Salad Niçoise is carefully chosen for its flavor and nutritional value.

The boiled eggs are a great source of protein and healthy fats. The tomatoes and bell peppers are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Green beans add a crunchy texture and are high in fiber. Tuna and anchovies bring a depth of flavor and are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids.

The homemade vinaigrette ties everything together, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients. The cider vinegar provides a mild acidity that balances the richness of the olive oil.

Lunch is often enjoyed outdoors, under the shade of a tree. The fresh air and the sounds of nature make the meal even more delightful. This moment of relaxation and nourishment is a highlight of the day, reinforcing the connection between food, nature, and well-being.

Afternoon, Sweet Treats

In the afternoon, my mom bakes Navettes de Marseille, traditional Provencal cookies. These cookies are flavored with orange blossom water, which gives them a delicate fragrance.

She mixes flour, sugar, eggs, and butter into a dough and adds plenty of orange blossom water. After resting the dough in the fridge, she shapes it into small, boat-like cookies. Baked until golden, these cookies are a perfect afternoon snack, enjoyed with a cup of tea.

Dinner, Simple and Hearty

Dinner is a comforting potato gratin. My mom boils the potatoes and slices them thin. She layers them in a buttered dish with sliced tomatoes and onions. Each layer is seasoned with herbs de Provence, salt, and pepper.

Topped with mozzarella cheese, the gratin is baked until bubbly and golden. The result is a simple yet flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Provencal cooking.

What makes my mom’s cooking special is its simplicity. Provencal cuisine isn’t about fancy techniques or rare ingredients. It’s about using fresh, local produce to create meals that are both delicious and nourishing.

Each dish she makes is a reminder to slow down and enjoy the process of cooking and eating.

So living in Provence has taught us the value of simplicity and freshness in our meals. My mom’s cooking is a testament to this, showing that great food doesn’t have to be complicated.

It’s about using what you have and making it special. Each meal is a celebration of life in Provence, filled with love and joy.