Learn French by cooking: the recipe for madeleines

Learn French by cooking: the recipe for madeleines

Would you like to learn French and treat your taste buds at the same time? Madeleines, those little cakes emblematic of France, are perfect for mixing learning with culinary pleasure. Not only will this simple recipe introduce you to a classic of French gastronomy, it will also enrich your French vocabulary and skills.

Why learn French by cooking?

Cooking is a great way to immerse yourself in the French language and culture. Here’s why:

• Concrete, useful vocabulary You’ll learn words related to ingredients (flour, sugar, eggs) and actions (emulsifying, beating, pouring).
• A cultural immersion Madeleines are part of France’s culinary heritage, associated with literature thanks to Marcel Proust.
• A playful method Cooking makes learning more engaging and memorable.

Why not start by making your own madeleines while practising your French?

Madeleines recipe

Ingredients (for about 20 madeleines) :

• 2 eggs
• 100 g sugar
• 100 g flour
• 100 g melted butter
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Zest of 1 lemon or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions :

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (th. 6-7).
2. Prepare the mixture In a bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until the mixture whitens.
3. Add the dry ingredients Add the sifted flour and baking powder. Mix gently.
4. Stir in the melted butter Add the cooled butter and lemon zest or vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
5. Let the dough rest Cover and leave to rest in the fridge for 30 minutes to obtain a nice lump when baking.
6. Pour into the mould Fill buttered madeleine molds three-quarters full.
7. Bake Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Enjoy Allow to cool before enjoying with tea or coffee.

Culinary vocabulary to remember

• Blanch Beat eggs with sugar until light and frothy.
• Sifting Pass flour or yeast through a sieve to avoid lumps.
• Rest To let the dough stand still to improve its texture.
• Place in oven Put in the oven.

Get into the habit of recording these terms in a vocabulary notebook and using them in other culinary contexts.

Madeleines, a symbol of French culture

Madeleine isn’t just a cake. It is also a literary symbol, thanks to Marcel Proust and his work “In search of lost time. This fluffy little cake has become an emblematic element of nostalgia and memories.

Come to the table with Too French

At Too FrenchWe combine language learning with culinary experiences. Learn French by exploring recipes, enrich your vocabulary and discover French culture from a new angle.

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