French Language, Literature, and Culture, Friday Period 3

[doesntstophurting]

Today there was a large box from Jeff, God of Biscuits' sitting on Booker's desk. "In recent years," Booker said to the class, "there has been something of a fad for a French sandwich cookie known as the macaron. Made from meringue and ground almonds, it is not to be mistaken for the macaroon, which is made with meringue and coconut--although as you might guess from the similar names and ingredients lists, they do share a common culinary ancestry. The macaron as we know it is actually a somewhat modern invention; until the early part of the twentieth century they were served as single cookies. The filling is a newfangled thing." Well, it was newfangled if you were born in the eighteenth century. "Also, fun fact, macarons were originally Italian." He'd heard all about it from Nicky. "They were introduced to France by Catherine de Medici, who married King Henry II.

"I thought about having you make macarons, but it's actually a bit tricky, and eating them is so much more fun, anyway. We have a handwavey assortment of flavors for you to try, so please, let me know what your favorites are. And let's talk about this. Why do you think the macaron is so popular? What is its appeal, besides 'cookie?' France has produced many different cookies, why is this one all the rage?"

Comments

Talk to Booker

[doesntstophurting]

He hopes there are leftovers.