50+ Traditional Valentine’s Day French Recipes for Every Course

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to indulge in a culinary experience that feels as special as the occasion itself.

What better way to celebrate love than with the rich flavors of French cuisine?

Known for its elegance, finesse, and artful combination of ingredients, French cooking offers a range of dishes perfect for a romantic evening.

Whether you’re planning an intimate dinner at home or preparing a lavish spread, these 50+ Valentine’s Day French recipes will elevate your celebration.

From classic appetizers to indulgent desserts, every dish promises to delight your senses and leave a lasting impression.

Let’s explore the flavors of France to make your Valentine’s Day truly unforgettable!

50+ Traditional Valentine’s Day French Recipes for Every Course

French cuisine is synonymous with romance, and what better way to express your love than through a meal that combines art, passion, and flavor?

With these 50+ Valentine’s Day French recipes, you have a treasure trove of delicious options at your fingertips, whether you’re aiming to cook a light appetizer or a luxurious dessert.

From the first bite to the last, French food creates moments of indulgence and connection.

So this Valentine’s Day, whisk your loved one away to France through your cooking, and make this day of love even more memorable.

Classic Coq au Vin (Chicken in Wine Sauce)

Coq au Vin, a quintessential French dish, combines tender chicken simmered in a rich, wine-based sauce with mushrooms, onions, and garlic. It’s the perfect meal to create an intimate and cozy atmosphere on Valentine’s Day. This recipe showcases love through its thoughtful preparation and heartwarming flavors, making it an ideal centerpiece for your romantic dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces) or 6 chicken thighs
• 2 cups dry red wine (Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 slices of bacon, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 12 pearl onions, peeled
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine the chicken pieces and wine in a bowl. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Prepare the Base: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven. Cook diced bacon until crispy, then remove and set aside.
3. Brown the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the wine) and pat dry. Season with salt and pepper, then brown in the bacon fat on all sides. Set aside.
4. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Simmer the Dish: Return the chicken and bacon to the pot. Add the reserved wine, chicken broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 40 minutes.
6. Add Vegetables: Add mushrooms and pearl onions. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

Coq au Vin is more than just a meal; it’s an experience of comfort and elegance. The slow-simmered flavors and tender chicken will impress your Valentine and leave a lasting memory. Pair it with a glass of red wine for the ultimate romantic French dinner.

Valentine’s Day Raspberry Mille-Feuille

This Raspberry Mille-Feuille is a show-stopping dessert that layers buttery puff pastry with sweet raspberry filling and luscious vanilla cream. It’s the epitome of French patisserie and a perfect way to say “Je t’aime” with something sweet and indulgent. Impress your Valentine with this elegant and delicious treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet of puff pastry
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 1/2 cup raspberry jam
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Bake the Puff Pastry: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into equal rectangles. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover with another sheet of parchment, and weigh down with another baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crisp. Cool completely.
2. Prepare the Cream: In a bowl, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
3. Assemble Layers: Spread a layer of raspberry jam on one rectangle of puff pastry. Pipe or spread whipped cream on top, then add fresh raspberries. Place another pastry rectangle on top and repeat. Finish with a top layer of pastry.
4. Dust and Serve: Dust the top layer with powdered sugar. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.

The Raspberry Mille-Feuille is an elegant and light dessert that will leave your Valentine in awe. Its delicate layers and bright raspberry flavor create a sweet ending to your special dinner. This recipe is perfect for adding a touch of sophistication and romance to your Valentine’s Day.

Chocolate Soufflé

A Chocolate Soufflé is a timeless French dessert that symbolizes romance with its delicate and airy texture. This rich, chocolatey delight is the perfect way to end a Valentine’s Day meal, showing your loved one that you’ve put thought and care into every bite.

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for coating)
• 4 oz dark chocolate (70%), chopped
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 2 large eggs, separated
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ramekins: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease two ramekins with butter and coat with granulated sugar.
2. Make the Chocolate Base: Melt chocolate and heavy cream in a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Whisk the Egg Yolks: Stir the egg yolks into the chocolate mixture until fully combined.
4. Beat Egg Whites: In a clean bowl, beat egg whites with cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold and Combine: Gently fold the egg whites into the chocolate mixture in three additions, being careful not to deflate.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into prepared ramekins and bake for 12-15 minutes until risen and slightly jiggly in the center.
7. Serve Immediately: Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.

The Chocolate Soufflé is a dessert made for celebrations of love. Its rich, yet light texture is a perfect balance of indulgence and delicacy, making it a delightful finale to your Valentine’s Day dinner. Serve it warm and watch as your partner enjoys every bite of this sweet, romantic gesture.

Bouillabaisse (Provençal Fish Stew)

Bouillabaisse, a traditional French Provençal fish stew, combines fresh seafood and aromatic herbs in a flavorful broth. This dish is elegant, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy yet impressive Valentine’s Day dinner. The combination of fish, shellfish, saffron, and garlic will transport your loved one to the Mediterranean coast, making it an unforgettable dish to share.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 leek, cleaned and sliced
• 2 tomatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 4 cups fish stock
• 1 cup white wine
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 lb firm white fish fillets (like cod or haddock), cut into chunks
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 lb mussels, scrubbed and debearded
• 1/2 lb clams, scrubbed
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Crusty bread, for serving
• Rouille sauce (optional), for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Broth: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and leek, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened. Add tomatoes, saffron, and a pinch of salt, then cook for another 5 minutes.
2. Simmer the Soup: Pour in fish stock and white wine, then add thyme, bay leaves, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Cook the Seafood: Add the white fish to the broth and simmer for 5 minutes. Then add shrimp, mussels, and clams, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the shellfish open and the fish is tender.
4. Serve: Discard any unopened shellfish. Ladle the bouillabaisse into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread and optional rouille sauce on the side.

Bouillabaisse is a flavorful and luxurious dish that brings a touch of the Mediterranean to your Valentine’s Day dinner. Its depth of flavor and abundance of seafood make it a truly special dish that will showcase your culinary skills and make your celebration unforgettable. Pair with a glass of white wine for a complete experience.

Tarte Tatin (Upside-Down Caramelized Apple Tart)

Tarte Tatin is a classic French dessert made with caramelized apples and a buttery pastry. This elegant yet simple dessert is perfect for a romantic evening, offering the right balance of sweetness and richness. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—an upside-down tart that turns out golden and caramelized, making it both a visual and flavorful treat.

Ingredients:

• 6 medium apples (preferably Golden Delicious or Granny Smith)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 sheet puff pastry
• Flour for dusting
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into halves or quarters. Set aside.
2. Caramelize the Apples: In a 9-inch cast-iron skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sugar and stir constantly until it forms a golden caramel (about 5 minutes). Add the apples and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the apples are tender and coated in caramel. Stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract.
3. Add the Pastry: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to fit the skillet. Drape it over the apples, tucking the edges into the skillet.
4. Bake the Tarte: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
5. Invert and Serve: Allow the tart to cool for 5 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a plate. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Tarte Tatin is a dessert that is both elegant and comforting, with its buttery caramelized apples and flaky pastry. It’s the perfect ending to a romantic meal, bringing the sweetness and warmth of French cuisine to your Valentine’s Day table. This dessert is simple to make yet delivers an unforgettable flavor that will impress your loved one.

Salmon en Papillon (Salmon in Parchment)

Salmon en Papillon is a French technique of cooking fish in parchment paper, allowing the ingredients to steam in their own juices. This healthy, light dish is beautifully presented and packed with delicate flavors, making it an ideal choice for a romantic Valentine’s Day meal. The combination of salmon, fresh herbs, and citrus will make your evening feel both luxurious and wholesome.

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Parchment: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut two large pieces of parchment paper (about 12 inches long) and fold each in half.
2. Assemble the Dish: Place a salmon fillet in the center of each parchment piece. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and top with thyme, rosemary, and lemon slices.
3. Add Wine and Butter: Pour a tablespoon of white wine over each fillet and top with a small pat of butter.
4. Seal the Parchment: Fold the parchment over the fish and crimp the edges tightly to seal the packet.
5. Bake: Place the packets on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until the salmon is fully cooked.
6. Serve: Carefully open the parchment packets and serve the salmon with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad.

Salmon en Papillon is a beautifully light and flavorful dish, offering a wonderful mix of aromatic herbs, citrus, and tender fish. The parchment-sealing method ensures that the salmon remains juicy and packed with flavor. This dish is ideal for a romantic dinner, as it’s both elegant and simple to prepare. Pair it with a glass of crisp white wine to enhance the experience.

Coq au Vin (Chicken in Red Wine)

Coq au Vin is a French classic that features tender chicken simmered in red wine, creating a rich, flavorful sauce that will melt in your mouth. This dish, originally a rustic peasant recipe, has been refined into a luxurious dinner perfect for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day. The slow cooking process allows the flavors of the wine, herbs, and vegetables to meld together, creating a delicious and hearty meal for two.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup red wine (preferably Burgundy or Pinot Noir)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1/2 cup pearl onions, peeled
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Brown the chicken in the pot for about 5 minutes on each side. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Simmer with Wine: Add the red wine, chicken broth, tomato paste, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir to combine. Return the chicken to the pot, skin-side up. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 40-45 minutes.
4. Add Onions and Mushrooms: Add the pearl onions and sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook for another 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Serve: Discard the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Garnish the coq au vin with fresh parsley and serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Coq au Vin is a comforting, rich, and flavorful dish that will impress your Valentine with its tender chicken and luxurious red wine sauce. The slow cooking process creates a deep, savory flavor profile, perfect for a cozy yet elegant dinner. Serve with a nice glass of red wine, and you’ll have an unforgettable French dining experience at home.

Crêpes Suzette

Crêpes Suzette is a classic French dessert known for its deliciously thin crêpes soaked in a rich orange sauce made with butter, orange juice, zest, and a hint of Grand Marnier. The flambéing process at the end adds a touch of drama, making it the perfect dish to end a romantic Valentine’s dinner. This dessert is a true showstopper, combining citrusy sweetness with a hint of liquor in a way that will leave your Valentine in awe.

Ingredients for Crêpes:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Ingredients for Suzette Sauce:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/4 cup Grand Marnier or orange liqueur
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (for garnish)

Instructions for Crêpes:

1. Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, eggs, milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Let the batter rest for 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Crêpes: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter. Pour a small amount of batter into the skillet, swirling to cover the surface. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden, then flip and cook for another minute. Repeat with the remaining batter, stacking the crêpes on a plate.
3. Prepare the Suzette Sauce: In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sugar and cook for a few minutes until it melts and turns golden. Add the orange juice, zest, and Grand Marnier. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Flambé: Fold each crêpe into quarters and place them in the sauce. Let them soak for a minute, then carefully ignite the Grand Marnier with a long lighter (be cautious). Let the flames subside as the alcohol burns off, and the sauce thickens further.
5. Serve: Plate the crêpes and drizzle with the sauce. Garnish with fresh orange zest and serve immediately.

Crêpes Suzette is an indulgent and impressive dessert that will make your Valentine’s Day unforgettable. The combination of delicate crêpes with a rich, citrusy sauce is simply divine. The flambéing process adds an element of excitement and luxury, making this dish a perfect way to end a romantic meal. Your loved one will surely appreciate the effort and flair that goes into preparing this classic French treat.

Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce

Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce is a rich and decadent French dish that combines tender, seared duck with a sweet and tangy cherry sauce. This elegant dish is perfect for a special Valentine’s dinner, showcasing the complexity and sophistication of French cuisine. The sweet cherry sauce pairs beautifully with the richness of the duck, making it an unforgettable main course for your romantic evening.

Ingredients for Duck Breast:

• 2 duck breasts (with skin on)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Ingredients for Cherry Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup red wine
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

1. Cook the Duck Breasts: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Score the skin of the duck breasts in a criss-cross pattern. Season the duck breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place the duck breasts skin-side down and sear for 5-6 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden. Flip the duck breasts and transfer the skillet to the oven. Roast for 6-8 minutes for medium-rare, or longer for desired doneness.
2. Prepare the Cherry Sauce: While the duck is roasting, combine the cherries, balsamic vinegar, red wine, honey, and thyme in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10-12 minutes until the sauce thickens.
3. Finish the Sauce: Remove from heat and stir in the butter to create a smooth, glossy sauce.
4. Serve: Slice the duck breasts and serve with the cherry sauce drizzled on top. Pair with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce is a rich and refined dish that combines the tender, succulent meat of duck with a sweet and tangy sauce that brings out the complexity of flavors. This dish is perfect for a Valentine’s Day dinner, offering a luxurious and memorable meal that will impress your loved one. Pair with a full-bodied red wine, like Pinot Noir or Merlot, to elevate the experience.

Salmon en Papillote

Salmon en Papillote is a French technique that involves baking fish in parchment paper, creating a steam pocket that locks in flavor and moisture. This dish is light, fresh, and aromatic, making it an elegant choice for Valentine’s Day. The delicate flavors of salmon, combined with fresh herbs, vegetables, and white wine, create a sophisticated, healthy meal that’s easy to prepare yet impressively delicious.

Ingredients:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1 small zucchini, sliced into thin rounds
• 1 small carrot, julienned
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 sheets of parchment paper (large enough to fold over the fish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Parchment: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut two large sheets of parchment paper, about 12×16 inches each, and lay them flat on a baking sheet.
2. Assemble the Ingredients: Place one salmon fillet in the center of each sheet of parchment. Top with lemon slices, zucchini, carrots, garlic, parsley, and dill. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Add Wine and Fold: Pour a tablespoon of white wine over each fillet. Fold the parchment over the salmon to form a sealed packet, ensuring the edges are tightly crimped.
4. Bake: Bake the packets in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Serve: Carefully open the parchment packets (watch for steam) and plate the salmon. Serve with a side of rice or steamed vegetables.

Salmon en Papillote is a perfect Valentine’s Day dish: light, flavorful, and visually impressive. The parchment-steaming method infuses the fish with aromatic herbs, wine, and vegetables, resulting in a moist and tender meal. It’s a healthy yet indulgent option, and the simple technique makes it easy to prepare without sacrificing elegance. This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a classic Provençal dish made with a medley of vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and bell peppers. It’s a colorful, hearty, and flavorful vegetable stew that showcases the beauty of French Mediterranean cuisine. The dish is naturally vegetarian and full of fresh flavors, making it an ideal choice for a light yet satisfying Valentine’s dinner, especially when paired with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium eggplant, sliced into thin rounds
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the eggplant, zucchini, bell pepper, onion, and tomatoes in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
2. Season: Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss the vegetables to coat evenly.
3. Roast: Roast the vegetables in the oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until they are tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Serve: Plate the ratatouille and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve with a side of warm crusty bread or over a bed of rice or couscous for a more substantial meal.

Ratatouille is a beautiful and healthy dish that celebrates the natural flavors of summer vegetables. Its rustic charm and vibrant colors make it a perfect choice for a cozy Valentine’s dinner. The roasting process deepens the flavors of the vegetables, creating a rich, savory stew that is light but satisfying. It’s an ideal dish for those seeking a vegetarian option with a touch of French flair. Pair with a crisp Rosé or a light red wine such as Pinot Noir for a complete experience.

Tarte Tatin

Tarte Tatin is a classic French dessert that is essentially an upside-down caramelized apple tart. With its buttery pastry and rich caramelized fruit topping, it is a perfect way to end a romantic meal. The dish is simple yet indulgent, making it ideal for a Valentine’s Day treat. The sweet, gooey apples paired with the crispy, flaky crust create a perfect contrast of textures and flavors that are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 6-8 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Braeburn)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into halves or quarters. Drizzle with lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. Make the Caramel: In a 9-inch ovenproof skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sugar and cook, swirling occasionally, until it turns golden and begins to caramelize (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add the Apples: Arrange the apple slices in the caramel in a circular pattern, packing them tightly. Sprinkle with cinnamon and cook for 10-12 minutes, occasionally spooning the caramel over the apples.
4. Add the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry and place it over the apples, tucking in the edges around the skillet.
5. Bake: Transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up.
6. Invert and Serve: Let the tart cool for 5 minutes, then carefully invert the skillet onto a plate. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tarte Tatin is a deliciously indulgent French dessert that combines the sweetness of caramelized apples with the buttery flakiness of puff pastry. It’s a simple yet stunning way to end a Valentine’s Day dinner, and its warm, comforting flavors make it perfect for the occasion. This dessert is a true showstopper that will leave your loved one delighted. Serve it with a glass of dessert wine, such as Sauternes or a sparkling Rosé, for the perfect finish to your romantic evening.

Coq au Vin

Coq au Vin is a French classic that translates to “rooster in wine.” This hearty, flavorful dish involves slow-braising chicken in red wine with mushrooms, onions, and herbs. It’s a dish that embodies the soul of French country cooking—rich, warming, and deeply satisfying. This dish is perfect for a romantic Valentine’s dinner, as it pairs beautifully with a glass of full-bodied red wine and crusty bread for dipping.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• 1/2 pound pearl onions, peeled
• 1/2 pound mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup dry red wine
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and brown the chicken thighs on both sides for about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onions and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook for another 3 minutes.
3. Deglaze and Simmer: Stir in the tomato paste, followed by the red wine and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the chicken thighs to the pot and add the bay leaves and thyme.
4. Braise the Chicken: Cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 45-50 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty French bread to soak up the sauce.

Coq au Vin is the epitome of French comfort food—rich, flavorful, and made for special occasions. The slow braising process results in tender chicken and a deeply flavored wine sauce that pairs perfectly with potatoes or bread. This dish is a fantastic choice for Valentine’s Day, offering a luxurious yet comforting dining experience. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of Pinot Noir or Burgundy for an extra touch of French romance.

Soupe à l’Oignon (French Onion Soup)

French Onion Soup is a heartwarming and aromatic dish that’s perfect for a cozy, romantic meal. The caramelized onions create a deep, rich base, which is then topped with melted cheese and toasted bread. This dish, a staple of French bistros, offers a savory, comforting starter that’s both indulgent and satisfying. It’s a great way to start a Valentine’s Day meal, especially when paired with a glass of dry white wine.

Ingredients:

• 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 slices of baguette
• 1 1/2 cups Gruyère cheese, grated

Instructions:

1. Caramelize the Onions: In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and golden brown, about 30 minutes. Stir in the sugar to help with caramelization.
2. Deglaze and Simmer: Add the white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any bits from the bottom. Then add the beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Prepare the Toast: While the soup simmers, toast the baguette slices in the oven or on a grill until golden and crisp.
4. Assemble and Broil: Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each with a slice of toasted baguette, then sprinkle generously with grated Gruyère cheese. Place the bowls under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
5. Serve: Carefully remove from the oven and serve immediately.

French Onion Soup is a classic dish that never goes out of style. The combination of sweet, caramelized onions and rich, savory broth, topped with gooey melted cheese and crunchy toast, makes for an unforgettable start to a Valentine’s Day meal. This dish is warm, comforting, and incredibly flavorful, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for a romantic evening. Pair it with a crisp glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc for an ideal pairing.

Crêpes Suzette

Crêpes Suzette is a classic French dessert made of delicate crêpes drenched in a flavorful orange sauce made with butter, orange juice, zest, and a splash of liqueur. The crêpes are flambéed at the table for an added touch of drama and excitement, making this dish an unforgettable treat for a romantic Valentine’s celebration. This sweet and citrusy dessert is a showstopper, with its rich, warm flavors and beautiful presentation.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 2 tablespoons Grand Marnier (or another orange liqueur)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup butter (for sauce)
• 1/4 cup sugar (for sauce)

Instructions:

1. Make the Crêpes: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, flour, sugar, milk, and water to form a smooth batter. Stir in the melted butter. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it. Pour a small amount of batter into the skillet, swirling to coat the bottom. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side, until lightly golden. Repeat with the remaining batter. Set the crêpes aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate pan, melt the butter for the sauce over medium heat. Add the sugar, orange juice, and zest, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, and then add the Grand Marnier and heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Flambé the Crêpes: Fold each crêpe into quarters and place them in the pan with the sauce. Let them soak for a minute, then carefully pour in a little extra Grand Marnier and ignite with a long lighter. Allow the flames to subside.
4. Serve: Plate the crêpes and spoon the sauce over them. Serve immediately with a garnish of orange slices or zest.

Crêpes Suzette is an iconic French dessert that adds a touch of elegance and flair to any meal. The combination of buttery, delicate crêpes with the rich orange sauce is a perfect balance of sweet and citrusy flavors. The flambéing process adds an exciting visual element, making it an impressive dessert for Valentine’s Day. Pair it with a glass of Champagne or a dessert wine like Cointreau to enhance the luxurious experience.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!