Though I didn’t grow up watching Julie Child or even having an inkling of who she was, she later had a profound affect on how I approached my cooking. I can thank my friend Rose for persuading me to make Julia’s oh so luscious chocolate mousse for her when she was pregnant, and that was all it took. I started reading The Way to Cook and Mastering the Art of French Cooking and attempting new dishes. After reading her books I felt even more empowered to experiment in the kitchen, and I gradually became less tied to recipes and more focused on technique, texture, and flavor combinations.
So on what would have been Julia’s 100th birthday, passionate cooks are celebrating her legacy by cooking and sharing her recipes. PBS is leading the celebration by creating a social media Julia love fest. So if you ever watched Julia’s shows, made her food, ate her food, or felt inspired by her, then join in and share your favorite Julia moments.
As for me, I have several favorite Julia recipes that I’ve learned to make.
Eggplant Gratin (Gratin D’Aubergines, Provencal), photo above. This dish just screams summer and though it takes several steps, it’s one of my favorite eggplant recipes.
French Bread. I learned how to make these loaves as part of a Daring Bakers challenge a few years ago. I even learned how to make an epi (the twisted loaf in the photo).
Chocolate Mousse. I believe this is the best recipe for chocolate mousse, ever. To die for.
Steak au Poivre. I make this on occasion when Michael and I want a little date night at home.
And last but not least, her French Onion Soup. A classic comfort food I can eat over and over again.
More Blogs Celebrating Julia Child’s 100th Birthday
- Kalyn’s Kitchen - Julia Child's Eggplant Pizzas (Tranches d'aubergine á l'italienne)
- The Perfect Pantry - Chocolate chip spice pound cake recipe, for Julia Child's birthday
- Sass & Veracity - Julia Child’s Bouillabaisse de Poulet with Pistou
- Cooking on the Side - Angostura and Soda…Happy 100th Birthday, Julia Child!
kellypea says
Nice showcase of recipes, Andrea! I have quite a few French recipes I've made over the years, but only a couple I've written about from Julia. I need to fix that!
Lydia (The Perfect Pantry) says
I'm so glad to have lived in Boston during part of the time Julia lived there. She shopped locally, in Cambridge, and everyone knew her favorite markets. Julia sightings were frequently, and always a thrill.
Kalyn says
They all sound good, especially the eggplant gratin!