Food, Anarchy, & Paris: The week of food (La Semaine de Fooding)

The Semaine de Fooding exemplifies the orderly, creative, philosophical anarchy that is a unique feature of French culture + FOOD. Sponsored by Le Fooding, this week of culinary madness kicks off November 30 and goes through December 7th. Like other Paris-based events, the whole city is involved.

This year’s theme is: Les Incorrects (presumably, the so-called politically incorrect, a term which has been corrupted from its original intent, to reflect accurately and sensitively on the subjects discussed). However, Les Incorrects for this purpose includes: Horse Carpaccio. (I don’t think I could do it, but then again, I’m living during the Paris Commune either). There is talk of a unique wine and food pairing: champagne and maggots.

One can wander and sample all week long. Chefs in masks will cook things they would never, ever want connected to their own names or restaurants.

Some of the dishes mentioned, however, actually have a long history. Remember, peasants everywhere eat everything but the squeal. Survival makes one a lot less choosy; being French means one can make it taste good. For example, my old Larousse Gastronomique has a number of recipes for cooking camel. Unlike Bear Grylls’s cuisine, these seem like they would taste good.

Invitations and the program can be found on the website:

http://www.lefooding.com

The week ends witha party at/in the 1929 art deco swimming pool, the Piscine Molitor.

All proceeds benefit the Action Contre le Faim (loosely translated: Action Against Hunger)

Then, reassure oneself that more conventional French food is alive and well by buying the annual Guide, which can be purchased on-line.

(Picture courtesy of: Deadilicious, Vingt Paris, & Le Fooding)

The website is fun and interactive. Check out the map of France: click on a province and find out where to eat.

Please note: sadly, no one has given me a Guide or tickets or anything. Alas.

Still, Paris beckons. It’s chocolate season!

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