Late Summer figs have a richer, more concentrated flavor than the Spring crop, almost jam-like. Unfortunately their season lasts only a few weeks. Fromage frais accentuates their ruby-pink sweetness, and a drizzle of lavender honey adds subtle floral notes. Such an uncomplicated dessert to make, but the ingredients blend together to produce a sophisticated whole.
This is a very delicious moist cake with a texture that is slightly crunchy from the hazelnuts. The jam and shaved chocolate on top give it a great extra punch and the fromage frais adds just a little tang.
Tarte flambée is a well-known Alsatian specialty. It’s like pizza in that a thin crust of dough is baked in a very hot oven but its toppings are primarily crème fraîche, onions, and bacon. Like many traditional regional dishes, there are innumerable ways of preparing it. Here is one delicious example.