10.2 "Cheese & Burritos" Episode 1: French Food Rituals ***NEW SUBSCRIBER SERIES***

Episode 1: French Food Rituals

Welcome back to *Cheese & Burritos*, our exclusive SUBSTACK series just for our valued subscribers! The first few episodes have been unlocked as a little taste—enjoy!

I’m thrilled to kick off our journey with an exploration of the delightful fusion between French and Californian cultures.  In this inaugural episode, we dive into “French Food Rituals,” where we delve into the enchanting customs and culinary traditions that have shaped my life as a French California mom. 

Today, we’ll explore the French way of eating, emphasizing the importance of savoring meals, the joy of simple ingredients, and the art of creating unforgettable dining experiences. 

Included are two recipes:  

• my favorite molten chocolate cake—a decadent dessert that has been a fan favorite for over 20 years.  
• my classic dijon vinaigrette recipe, a simple yet transformative addition to your salads.

Join me as we discuss how these French food rituals can bring mindfulness, pleasure, and a touch of elegance to your everyday meals. We’ll talk about the flow of French life, where food is not just sustenance but a celebration of culture, family, and tradition.

Thank you for supporting me and my small business. Your support means the world, and I’m excited to share this culinary journey with you. Tune in and let’s embrace the beauty of French and Californian fusion, one delicious bite at a time. Bon appétit!

Transcript

Episode Title: French Food Rituals

Introduction:

Welcome to “Cheese & Burritos”, where I delve into the art of mindfulness and its impact on our daily lives. I’m your host, Vanessa Hutchinson-Szekely, and today, I’ll be exploring the cultural nuances of being a French mom living in California. 

I’ll focus on the positive influence of French eating habits, particularly the structured approach to meal times, nutritious and varied ingredients, and how this fosters pleasure, mindfulness, and connectedness within the family.

Segment 1: The French Approach to Eating

In France, eating is more than just a necessity; it’s a cherished ritual. Meals are enjoyed at regular times throughout the day, with a strong emphasis on nutritious and varied ingredients. This structured approach to eating is not only about nourishing the body but also about creating moments of connection and joy.

Segment 2: The Joy of Structured Meal Times

One of the most significant differences between French and American eating habits is this emphasis on regular meal times. In France, families typically eat three meals a day at set times, with snacks kept to a minimum. This structure helps children develop a sense of routine and discipline. They learn to wait for meal times, which teaches patience and self-control, rather than seeking immediate gratification from constant snacking.

Meal times are breakfast, noon, 4pm snack (le gouter) if you’re a child or connected to one) and dinner

Segment 3: Mindfulness and Pleasure in Eating

The French view eating as a pleasurable experience to be savored. Meals are often leisurely, allowing time to appreciate the flavors and textures of the food. This mindful approach to eating fosters a deeper connection with the food and the people around the table. It transforms mealtime into a source of family joy rather than a struggle. By being present and engaged during meals, parents and children alike can experience greater satisfaction and fulfillment.

Eating together as a family is not just about nourishment; it's about creating moments of joy and having fun with meal times. Approaching things through a balanced lens is key—it's not necessary to eliminate sugar completely, but rather to be mindful of our choices. Finding pleasure in the diversity of flavors and experiences around the table can make meals something to look forward to. In the spirit of this balance, I’m excited to share one of my family's favorite recipes: a decadent chocolate molten cake that I received from Charlotte's mom, Christine, 20 years ago, as well as a simple vinaigrette recipe. Check out the show notes for links to both recipes!

Segment 4: Connectedness with Others

Sharing meals is an opportunity to connect with loved ones. In France, family meals are a time for conversation, laughter, and bonding. This sense of togetherness reinforces closeness, communication, and creates a supportive environment where children participate in important rituals. It’s during these shared moments that values and traditions are passed down, strengthening the bonds and boosting joy.

Segment 5: The Role of Nutritious and Varied Ingredients

French cuisine emphasizes the importance of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Meals are typically balanced, with a variety of vegetables, proteins, and grains. This not only ensures that children receive the nutrients they need but also exposes them to a wide range of flavors and textures from a young age. Encouraging children to try new foods regularly is a key aspect of the French approach. Even if they initially dislike something, reintroducing it over time can positively impact their taste buds and broaden their palate.

Segment 6: Practical Tips for Incorporating French Eating Habits

As a French mom living in California, you can blend the best of both worlds by incorporating these mindful eating habits into your family’s routine. Here are five practical tips:

1. Set Regular Meal Times: Establish a consistent schedule for meals and minimize snacking. This helps children develop a sense of routine and discipline.

2. Make Mealtime a Family Affair: Prioritize eating together as a family whenever possible. Use this time to connect, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company. We regularly play “rose and thorn” where each person shares a highlight/lowlight of their day.

3. Focus on Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh, nutritious, and varied ingredients for your meals. Involve your children in meal planning and preparation to foster an appreciation for good food.

4. Encourage Mindful Eating: Slow down and savor each bite. Teach your children to appreciate the flavors, textures, and colors of their food. Avoid distractions like TV or smartphones during meals…most of the time if not all the time. 

5. Introduce New Foods Regularly: Don’t be discouraged if your child doesn’t like a new food at first. Keep reintroducing it in different ways. Studies show that repeated exposure can help children develop a taste for new foods.

Conclusion:

Embracing the French approach to eating can have a profoundly positive impact on your family’s well-being. By fostering mindfulness, pleasure, and connectedness around meals, you can transform eating into a source of joy rather than struggle. Thank you for joining me on this exploration of French eating habits. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with other parents who might benefit. Until next time, bon appétit and enjoy the journey of mindful parenting.

Outro:

Thank you for listening to “Cheese & Burritos”. For more mindfulness tips and resources, visit our website at www.bigbellybreathing.com. You can also follow us on Instagram! Take BIG Care.