French gastronomy is renowned worldwide for its refinement and unique culinary heritage. Among the lesser-known yet iconic delights of French pastry, mirlitons hold a special place. This specialty, originating from various regions of France, is loved for its soft texture and delicate taste of almonds and vanilla.
In this article, discover the history of this pastry, its authentic recipe from a renowned French chef, and how you can learn to make it through an immersive experience in a
gastronomy and wine program in
Antibes.
Mirlitons date back to the 18th century and are often
associated with different French regions, particularly Rouen and Île-de-France.
Their exact origin remains uncertain, but this pastry was already
appreciated in tea rooms and by bakers of the time.
The term "mirliton" refers to a small
musical instrument, which could explain the name given to these cakes,
due to their slightly cylindrical shape or their crispy texture reminiscent
of the sound produced by a mirliton.
Originally, mirlitons were made with puff pastry filled with a mixture of eggs, sugar, and almonds. Today, the most common version is a soft biscuit that stands out for its delicate vanilla and lemon flavor.
The
discovery of French gastronomy is not limited to tasting traditional dishes. To truly immerse yourself in the culinary culture and gain a deeper understanding of the art of French cuisine, hands-on experience is essential.
The
Gastronomy and Wine program at the
Centre International d’Antibes is designed for
adults who wish to
learn French while exploring the richness of the country’s gastronomy. This stay combines interactive French courses and culinary workshops for a complete immersion experience.
What the program offers:
-
French courses for adults: 20 lessons per week, tailored to participants’ needs, with a focus on oral and written communication.
- Cooking workshops: Learning traditional French recipes, guided by experienced chefs sharing their expertise.
- Wine tastings: Exploring France’s finest terroirs and learning the art of food and wine pairing.
- Visits to Provençal markets: Discovering local products at the iconic Cours Saleya market in Nice and the Provençal market in Antibes.
Located in
Antibes, on the
French Riviera, this program allows participants to perfect their French in an idyllic setting while discovering the subtleties of French gastronomy.
Ingredients for 6 to 8 people
Preparation
The result is a golden, soft, and intensely fragrant cake, perfect to enjoy with coffee or tea.
For those passionate about
gastronomy and French culture who wish to enhance their knowledge while experiencing full immersion, this program offers a unique opportunity to combine learning French with culinary discovery.
This stay allows participants to experience the French language daily, both in class and during gastronomic activities, interacting with chefs, local producers, and other participants from around the world. Through French courses, participants improve their comprehension and spoken expression in a natural and applied setting.
This program enables participants to discover the products, traditions, and craftsmanship of French cuisine, all in an exceptional seaside setting. It is ideal for:
- Cooking enthusiasts who want to learn traditional French techniques and recipes while practicing alongside experienced chefs and developing their culinary vocabulary in French.
- Wine lovers who wish to deepen their understanding of French fine wines and food pairings, while engaging with sommeliers and local producers in French.
- Adults in career transition or those looking to immerse themselves in the world of French cuisine and pastry, with a hands-on and language-adapted approach.
- Travelers seeking a unique cultural experience, combining
learning French,
gastronomic discoveries, and moments of exchange with an international community.
This program goes far beyond a simple
language stay or a culinary experience. It allows participants to practice French in real-life situations, while discovering the treasures of French gastronomy, from local producers to fine dining, including renowned vineyards.
- An immersive approach: Participants practice French in real-life contexts while developing culinary skills.
- Guided learning: Experienced instructors and passionate chefs support participants at every stage of the program.
- A unique setting: Antibes, a city between the sea and mountains, provides the perfect environment for discovery and relaxation.
An all-inclusive program: French courses, culinary activities, accommodation, and meals are covered for a hassle-free experience.
