Culinary Spotlight – Lyon, France

Lyon, France is certainly the city to indulge in all of your French foodie fantasies, decadent dreams and love of adventurous cuisine.

This historic city is the gastronomic capital of France – and the French would probably argue (and possibly be right), the entire world. The best known chefs all encourage gourmands-in-the-making to make the pilgrimage to beautiful Lyon, nestled in between the Burgundy and Provence regions of France. Many top chefs train here, attending culinary schools or gaining prestigious work under any of the city’s renowned rockstar chefs. There are nearly 2,000 restaurants here, including 11 with Michelin stars, to cater to half a million residents and hungry visitors.

While in Lyon, France, why not try one of it’s iconic dishes – French Onion Soup?

The French put their own delicious spin on the soup in the 18th century in Paris. There are numerous stories surrounding its creation, some revolving around King Louis XV. Perhaps the king or his servants created the iconic broth after a day of hunting for deer. Or it’s possible that Louis’ father-in-law may also have brought it to court after first enjoying it at Versailles. The soup may have even played a part in creating the modern use of the word “restaurant” as a Parisian restauranteur supposedly opened an eatery offering the soup and describes its restorative traits. The French word for “restore” is “restauration.”

Popular in the United States since the 1960s, this soup has been prepared in restaurants around the world for centuries and by such famous chefs as Julia Child and Alton Brown. It is often characterized by the cheese and croutons that cover the caramelized onions and beef stock-based soup. The caramelization brings out the sweetness of the onions. Each chef brings his or her own special touch to the broth, but many recipes call for wine. This popular menu item is always a welcome treat as the temperature cools down.

French Onion Soup Recipe – Serves 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound onions, finely sliced
• ½ stick butter
• 2 cups beef stock
• 2 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup white wine
• ½ cup red wine
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 sprig each fresh thyme and marjoram
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/8 cup Cognac
• French bread sliced
• ½ cup grated Gruyere cheese

Sauté onions and garlic in butter in an uncovered soup pot until onions are nicely browned. Add thyme, marjoram, Cognac, white wine, beef and chicken stock and bring to a boil. Reduce and simmer for 40 minutes until onion flavor is well developed. Season to taste and add red wine. Serve with French bread croutons and grated Gruyere cheese.

Visiting Lyon, France by River Cruise

Feast on the sites, smells and tastes of the Culinary Capital of France, Lyon and many other delectable destinations along the Rhone and Saone Rivers. Not only will you have a window onto the rolling vineyards and countryside but you’ll also enjoy these benefits on your all-inclusive sailing. Learn more about river cruise itineraries with Amawaterways HERE.

Example of Included Amenities (Amawaterways)

• Wellness Activities with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes as well as discussions on healthy eating and relaxation techniques, both on board and on shore.
• Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
• Internet and Wi-Fi access
• Sun deck whirlpool and walking track
• Fitness room, massage services and hair salon
• Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar
• Daily entertainment including cultural performances

Award-Winning Dining

• All onboard dining in a variety of venues
• Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
• The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant
• Welcome cocktail, Welcome Dinner, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Dinner, Captain’s Cocktail and Gala Dinner
• La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs exclusive dining experience
• Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
• Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
• Tapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main Lounge

Perhaps the BIGGEST BENEFIT of a river cruise only unpacking once! You’ll revel in your floating boutique hotel without lifting a finger. Have I whetted your appetite for a leisurely sail through France’s culinary landscape? Let’s talk about how you can indulge all of your senses on a river cruise. Click here to schedule a call with me to learn more.