Description
Book Synopsis: The inspiring and delicious memoir of an American woman who had the gall to open a cooking school in Paris—a true story of triumphing over French elitism and falling in love with a city along the way.
When Jane Bertch was eighteen, her mother took her on a graduation trip to Paris. Thrilled to use her high school French, Jane found her halting attempts greeted with withering condescension by every waiter and shopkeeper she encountered. At the end of the trip, she vowed she would never return.
Yet a decade later she found herself back in Paris, transferred there by an American bank. She became fluent in the language, gradually earning the respect of her French colleagues as she excelled in her new position. But she had a different dream: to start a cooking school for foreigners like her, tourists who wanted to take a few classes in French cuisine in a friendly setting, then bring their new skills to their kitchens back home. Predictably, Jane faced nay-saying Frenchmen—how dare an American banker start a cooking school in Paris?—real-estate nightmares, and a long struggle to find and attract clients.
Thanks to Jane’s perseverance, La Cuisine Paris opened in 2009. The years since have been filled with triumphs and heartbreaks. Several times the school almost closed, thanks to the pandemic and terrorist attacks that kept tourists away. Now the school is thriving, welcoming international visitors to come in and knead dough, whisk béchamel, whip meringue, and learn the care, precision, patience, and beauty involved in French cooking.
The French Ingredient is the story of a young female entrepreneur building a life in a city and culture she grew to love. As she built La Cuisine, Jane learned how to flirt, how to project confidence, and how to give it right back to rude waiters. Having finally made peace with the city she swore never to revisit, she now offers a love letter to France, and a master class in Parisian cooking—and living.
Details
Discover the captivating story of Jane Bertch, an American woman who defied all odds and opened a cooking school in the heart of Paris. In "The French Ingredient: Making a Life in Paris One Lesson at a Time," Jane shares her inspiring journey of triumphing over French elitism and falling in love with the City of Lights. Prepare to be transported to the enchanting streets of Paris as you immerse yourself in Jane's engaging memoir.
With its rich descriptions and mouthwatering anecdotes, "The French Ingredient" is the perfect blend of inspiration and gastronomy. Embark on a sensory adventure as Jane takes you on a culinary tour of the city, introducing you to the secrets of French cuisine. From perfecting the art of creating mouthwatering pastries to mastering the delicate balance of French flavors, this memoir will leave you craving more than just a taste of Paris.
Experience the passion, dedication, and resilience that Jane pours into her cooking school, La Cuisine Paris. Despite facing countless obstacles, Jane's determination never wavered. From naysaying French locals to daunting real estate challenges, she defied the odds to create a haven for aspiring chefs from around the world. Now, it's your turn to embark on your own culinary journey and discover the wonders of French cooking.
Not only will "The French Ingredient" satisfy your appetite for captivating storytelling, but it will also serve as a valuable guide for anyone dreaming of starting a business in a foreign land. Learn the secrets of success as Jane shares her experiences of overcoming adversity and building a thriving enterprise in the heart of one of the world's most revered culinary capitals.
Are you ready to immerse yourself in the tantalizing world of French cuisine and embark on a journey of self-discovery? Join Jane Bertch on her remarkable adventure in "The French Ingredient: Making a Life in Paris One Lesson at a Time." Don't miss out on this opportunity to be captivated by the romance of Paris and the artistry of French cooking. Order your copy now and be inspired!
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