Sixes & Sevens

tupina

A taxi driver in London once gave me a first class lecture on the meaning and origins of the idiom to be “at sixes and sevens”. I don’t know how it came up, I remember he had an awful lot to say about everything and before I knew it he had given me the whole story of the disputing trade companies that were bickering over order of precedence. They were founded in the same year but it could not be established which was founded first. Both wanted to be sixth (in the order of precedence) so now they change their order every year and are permanently between sixth and seven. It was a short taxi ride, from Waterloo station to Knightsbridge, had it been longer I would probably know … everything.

radishes

vegs

The phrase is used to describe someone who is in a state of confusion or can’t make up their mind. Which is a perfect way to describe me in the last few weeks. All that lovely holiday food waiting to be cooked, the endless possibilities. I have been trying to restrain myself, I have gone to the market with a menu in my head, but then I end up buying all sorts of other stuff too. Let’s just say that rules have been broken. We’ve had two sets of breakfasts, lunches in the afternoons and dinners on “Spanish time”. I’ve had minced pies practically every morning for breakfast (some of them delivered to me in bed no less), it is an absolute Christmas ritual for me to have them throughout the holidays (and not just for Christmas). Starters and desserts have been served simultaneously on occasion, which is quite nice as some of them have never met before. I am not sure though, that the Eaton mess enjoyed sharing the stage with the oysters – desserts can be such snobs!

merveilles

six7

We, like the rest of France, have gone mad for seafood, a plateau de fruit de mer is one of the most traditional things to serve at Christmas and every market has been bursting with oysters and crevettes, bulots, tourteaux, lobsters and langoustines. We like to call our seafood platter “royal” a nod to my father I suppose because a royal seafood platter is his favorite thing to order in restaurants. He likes the extravagance of it and when he first met my husband he made a point of ordering the most sumptuous one. When Chinese people invite for dinner they like to have too much food as a way of showing their hospitality. Icelandic people, on the other hand, think it’s rude not to finish what they are served. So you can imagine the scenes, my father kept ordering, my husband kept finishing.

tupina3

allatthetable2

pumpkins

We’ve had our fair share of poultry, soups and stews and all sorts of vegetable cocottes. Chocolates, meringues, delicious puddings and turkish delights. I made a lovely lavender honey nougat that I just had to share with you along with the minced pie recipe that I am particularly fond of (although I probably should have shared it sooner so you could have enjoyed it longer). A cauliflower soup with Cantal cheese was particularly satisfying one grey day earlier in December and pink radishes have found their way into many dishes this year so I’m putting those too.

tupinafries

tupinacake

The best gift we’ve had this year was to have all our children at Christmas, to be able to share a table with all of them at this time of the year is pure magic. And what tables we’ve shared. We met up with the older kids in Paris where I was lucky enough to be invited to host a “Cooklette” (workshop) at one of my favorite stores, Colette. What better way to spend an afternoon in December than to teach a bunch of great kids how to make marmelade and scones à la Paddington bear, in honor of his upcoming movie. Such good fun. We had two dim sum meals at one of my favorite Chinese restaurants in Paris, Auberge des trois bonheurs. They have the traditional round spinning tables and the younger kids were so eager to get to their food that the dishes literally came flying off the table when they played roulette. Back in Bordeaux we took them all to one of the prettiest restaurants you can find, La Tupina, as a holiday treat. They have very classic Bordelaise food, great fries cooked in duck fat, quality meats and are a perfect setting for a family meal. We got such great service, a family of six children and numerous dogs is not always easy to cater to.

oysters

mince

tupina2

Which brings me back to the sixes and sevens. That phrase is taking on added significance for us these days, it’s the last Christmas we’ll have six kids, next year they’ll be seven.

cauliflowersoup

Velouté of cauliflower with Cantal
Serves 6
3 potatoes, peeled and sliced
1 medium-sized cauliflower head, coarsely chopped
A sprig of thyme 200 g/ 7 ounces Cantal cheese, shredded (or any of your favourite cheese)
30 g/ 2 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
130 g/ 4 ounces slivered almonds
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Sea-salt & freshly ground black pepper
A dash of piment d’Espelette A few sprigs of fresh chive, finely chopped

In a large pot, bring 750 ml/ 3 & 1/4 cups water to a boil and add coarsely chopped cauliflower head, thyme, nutmeg and potatoes. Cook for 30 minutes on a medium to low heat or until vegetables are tender. Add more water if necessary. Off the heat, mix the soup with a blender until smooth. Return the pot to the heat, add the shredded cantal cheese and simmer for a few minutes ona very low heat, stirring until the cheese is completely melted. Season with salt & pepper. Add the butter and stir. Set aside. Preheat a pan on the stove. Pour the almonds in the pan and roast, shaking the pan every 10 seconds to prevent from burning. The almond slivers are ready when they turn golden, about 2 to 3 minutes max. Serve soup in individual bowls, sprinkle with finely chopped chives and slivered roasted almonds, plus a dash of piment d’Espelette (optional). Season accordingly.

vegetables

Roasted pink radishes & carrots with balsamic vinegar & rosemary
Serves 4 as a starter

Preheat the oven to 220°C/ 420 F

1 large pink radish, sliced finely
A bunch of small organic carrots
A few sprigs of fresh rosemary
2-3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 pomegranate
A drizzle of olive oil
Coarse sea-salt and freshly ground black pepper

Place the vegetables on a roasting tray, drizzle olive oil, sprinkle salt and pepper and finely chopped rosemary. Roast for 20 minutes. Place on a serving plate and scatter pomegranate seeds all over. Drizzle with additional olive oil and balsamic vinegar if desired. Season to taste if necessary.

mincepie

Mince pies

This is a lovely recipe, so simple and delicious. I enjoy preparing mince pies in advance, so they are ready to be popped in the oven anytime. One of my favourite treats for the holidays, I especially like to have them for breakfast. So festive!

For the pastry: 240 g/ 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
360 g/ 3 cups plain flour
130 g/ 2/3 cup granulated sugar
A pinch of salt
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 full egg
1 egg yolk

Makes approx 18 small mince pies.

Preheat oven to 200°C/ 390 F

Mix the flour and butter, then gradually add the sugar, vanilla extract and salt. Mix until crumbly, then add the egg and egg yolk. Shape dough into a ball and cover with cling film. Refrigerate for 30 minutes before rolling.

Quick & easy mincemeat:

60 g/ ½ cup dark raisins, chopped
60 g/ ½ cup golden raisins, chopped
80 ml/ 1/3 cup calvados (apple brandy)
60 g/ ½ cup candied orange, chopped
30g/ 2 tablespoons candied ginger, chopped
Zest of half an orange
Zest of half a lemon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
¼ cup slivered almonds
2 tablespoons brown sugar (cassonade)
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon ground cloves
1 beaten egg, for the eggwash
Icing sugar, to serve

Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl, cover and leave to macerate overnight. Use as pie filling. Line mince pies patty tins or small tartlet moulds with the pastry. Place one and a half teaspoon of mincemeat and cover with a pastry disk. Press on the edges to seal. Prick the center of the mince pies with a small stick. Brush the pies with a beaten egg. Bake for 18 minutes, or until pies are golden brown. Leave to cool 5 minutes one pastry rack before unmoulding. Sprinkle with icing sugar. Serve with heavy cream and redcurrants.

nougat

Lavender honey nougat

180 g/ ¾ cup lavender honey
300 g/ 1 ½ cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp water
1 egg white
200 g/ 1 ½ cup mix of unsalted pistachios, almonds, hazelnuts and finely chopped dried apricots
½ tsp vanilla essence

You will need a candy thermometer.

Note: I used a small mix of cornflour and icing sugar and lightly sprinkled on the parchment paper to avoid stickiness.

Preheat the oven to 160°C/ 320 F

Prepare a pan (I used a 23cm/ 9-inch silicone round pan) – lightly oil the pan with olive oil or cooking spray. Roast the almonds and pistachios in a 160°C/320 F oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Make sure to shake the pan once in a while to prevent the nuts from burning. Set aside.(tip: rub the nuts in the hands when they have cooled down to get rid of excess peelings). Combine the lavender honey, sugar and water in a saucepan and heat on a low heat until melted, stirring occasionally. Once melted, increase the heat slightly until the temperature of the mixture reaches 140°C, turning into a light golden thick syrup. Immediately take off the heat. In a large bowl, whisk the egg white until stiff, and slowly add the honey/sugar syrup while whisking. Be very careful to add slowly, as it is very hot. Continue to whisk until the mixture is very thick, for about 6 to 8 minutes. Fold in the mixed nuts and apricots. Pour the nougat mixture in the prepared pan. (I did not use wafer paper to line the top or bottom of the pan, that is why I used a silicone mould to facilitate the unmoulding step. You can find wafer paper in specialized baking/kitchen stores.) Smooth the mixture with a spatula. Leave the nougat to set, uncovered, for at least 3 to 4 hours in a cool and dry environment. Unmould the nougat on a parchment paper covered cutting board and cut desired chunks.

mincegone

215 thoughts on “Sixes & Sevens

    1. Thank you so much! Wishing you a wonderful new year! If I was you, I’d start with mince pies! It’s never too late to enjoy these festive treats, especially for breakfast! Mimi x

  1. Love your blog and this post in particular was such a gift at Christmas. Beautiful writing, photos, and recipes. Merry Christmas!—and I think congratulations! Between 6-7- soon to be 7!

  2. Congratulations. Best Christmas gift for you and your husband. We just had our Christmas miracle and I became a great grandmother.

    1. Thank you Mimi! And congratulations to you on becoming a great-grandmother! I hope I will reach that bliss one day 🙂 Wishing you a beautiful new year, filled with love and happiness! Mimi x

  3. Delightful!
    A feast for the eyes and a wonderful way to end a great year. That Nougat will be made for my New Year’s Day finger food feast!
    Congratulations to you and your delightful family.

  4. Mimi!

    Greetings from snowy and cold Minnesota! I can understand your situation with having to deal with too many choices! But this year, my husband and I flew back to our native state of California where we enjoy an 85 F degree Christmas day with my family. I am of Mexican decent, and our tradition is to make and eat tamales. Not only are the tastes of our individual holiday recipes delicious, but they bring back the LOVE of departed parents and relatives. We had so much fun being together, and to come home also is blissful; we can rest.

    I wish you and your family continued success and happiness in 2014! Anita

    1. Greetings from Médoc Anita! Tamales sound delicious, I don’t think I ever tried them! It’s wonderful to eat special traditional food, especially when it brings back such fond memories. Wishing you a lovely new year! Mimi x

  5. Congrats Mimi! Yay! So exciting! Wonderful story and pictures too. I’m gonna try my hand at the nougat! Yum! Happy new year to you mama to be! x

  6. What a wonderful Christmas story, from beginning to end. Congratulations are obviously in order to you, your husband, and the (now) 6 children, of course. And, as always, looking forward to your next post.

  7. What a lovely holiday — isn’t it the best to be surrounded by a sumptuous feast and those you love? Our holiday found us at sixes and sevens, as I wrote on Marmelade Gypsy but we managed a lovely meal (more than a few actually) and memorable experiences. And really, isn’t the experience what it is all about, being with people you love? Sending you wonderful wishes for the new year.

    1. Oh I so agree with you! It’s means the world to us to be surrounded by our dearest during this special holiday season. It’s so heartwarming to be united. Wishing youa wonderful new year, filled with joy! Mimix

  8. Congratulations on number seven—ah, LUCKY number seven. I’m sure the rest of the children (and the dogs) are excited.

    Thanks for another wonderful post. Wishes for a wonderful New Year filled with love and laughs—and wonderful food

    1. Thanks so much – I like that, LUCKY seven! I am so grateful to be reading such wonderful comments – what a beautiful wayto end the year. Wishing you a happy new year, filled with light and joy! Mimi x

  9. Your blog is so captivating, I have no words… The pictures always drives me crazy, because they are so good! I discovered your blog a little more than a week ago and I can say that it is one of the most beautiful, sensitive and graceful things I have ever seen. You really inspire me to reach bigger and better with my own food blog. Also, congratulations on the seventh child. Big families equal beautiful families 🙂

    Best wishes,
    Ieva Marija from Vilnius, Lithuania

    1. Merci dearest Leva, your kind words are so touching. I sometimes can’t believe how lucky I am to be able to communicate with such wonderful readers like you – we feel and love the same things in life! Thank you for everything! Best wishes for the new year! Mimi x

  10. Congratulations on your news, and best wishes for a wonderful year. I love your blog but don’t usually post comments as it’s in my feed reader, but just had to congratulate you on your news and say how beautiful your site is. Blessings to you and your family.

  11. Congratulations on the soon to be arrival! As a fairly new transplant, I am learning all that the holidays have to offer here. My husband is from an area very near to you and food has always played a special role in their family, often incorporating the local wine and cognac from grapes that they grow. I am planning on your soup recipe for tomorrow’s lunch…can not wait to try it!
    Happy holidays to you and yours.

  12. Dear Mimi,
    Congratulations!!! Wow you truly are a master of what you do. How incredibly talented you are on top of being a wonderful wife and mother.
    Your blog is truly magical and I enjoy reading it over and over as well as looking at all the stunning photos. Happy New Year from Malibu California. Janette Mallory

  13. Congratulations sweetie, what absolutely over-the-top wonderful news! No wonder you’re all sixes and sevens, and, you’re totally allowed. Thank you for the lovely mince tarts recipe. I’m in England for the winter and we had the village Christmas sale a week ago. One lovely older lady made such delicious mince tarts that I bought two dozen after tasting one with our tea, and asked her about the recipe. She said, “oh darling, I don’t have one.” Isn’t that the way it always is? Lol. I tend to wing it half the time too. This year I made our Christmas fruit cake from a 1950’s British recipe book and it’s turned out to be the best cake I’ve made in…like…forever. (Even better than Martha Washington’s Great Cake and I didn’t think anything could top that.) Hope you’re having the best holiday Mimi, and much love to you and your little family for the New Year. 🙂

    1. Merci Veronica! There are so many delicious versions of mince pies, all so wonderful! I just love them, the more, the merrier during this festive season! I hope you are having a superb holiday, filled with joy and happiness! Happy new year! Mimi x

  14. What a sweet surprise wrapped in the last sentence, Mimi! All the best to you and your loved ones for 2014! Can’t wait for your book!

    I don’t often find the time to comment here but still, each of your lovely blog post brings some peace into an otherwise somewhat hectic life. I really enjoy your stories of Médoc and guess what, they are the reason why we are now considering to travel to this enchanting region next summer.

    All the best ♥,
    Christine

    1. Well what a great plan for the new year! Thank you so much for your kind, encouraging and uplifting words – I am so blessed! 2014 will be an exciting year for all of us! Happy new year! Mimi x

  15. Mimi, your words always take me away to another place, another time. They help me dream of better times and happier days. Congratulations to you and your family on the news of a new baby. How very blessed you are Mimi. Blessings for a wonderful New Year.

  16. Wow Congratulations Mimi, So excited and happy for you. Wonderful to have all the kids around for Christmas, the best gift you can ask for. Love the nougat recipe, on my list. Thank you so much for an amazing and inspiring year, best wishes and great success for the New Year.
    Hugs and kisses going your way.
    Rowaida

    1. Merci Rowaida – I am always so touched by your generosity and kindness! I think you were one of my very first readers – I feel so very close to you and hope we can meet one day, perhaps over a stroll in a park in London? Wishing you and your lovely family a wonderful new year, fille with love and light! Much love, Mimix

  17. Dear Mimi,

    thank you for sharing these wonderful posts.
    I am really happy to hear the news about number seven and wish you and your family the very best, a healthy, lucky and peaceful time to come. Love Sabine

  18. Oh, what wonderful news!!! And such a creative way to share it! 🙂 Your holidays sound absolutely divine! Feasting, feasting, feasting…just as it should be. I wish the restaurants here in the US were more dog-friendly. Mine would love to accompany me out for a good meal!

    Wishing you and your beautiful (growing!) family all the best in the new year! Can’t wait to see what 2014 brings. Cheers and congratulations! -Rebecca

    1. Thank you so much for your kind words Rebecca! I am so touched by everyone’s kindness – it’s overwhelming! We are all so excited with this new blessing, and can’t wait to share more! Wishing you and your lovely family a wonderful new year! Mimi x

  19. Bright blessings Mimi for you, your little one and your lovely family…am so delighted by your happy news and know what a gift a new baby will be for you all. heehee mince pies for nine months doesn’t sound like a bad idea? xx

  20. What a cute post! I loved how you set things up for the big surprise. Congratulations and thank you for all the wonderful recipes and vicarious journeys!

  21. Mimi, I know I’m off topic here, but am in a quandary. I have a 2 pound package of domestic (USA-Illinois) duck gizzards in the freezer and do not know how to prepare them. I know to make confit, but do I boil them first and then do confit or just cook in the duck fat? Any help or advice is greatly appreciated.

    1. Hi Karen! For gizzards, I love to have them with a salad, haricots verts and perhaps a few slices of peach, preferably with a raspberry fruity vinaigrette! Sprinkle the gizzards generously with coarse salt and leave to macerate in a covered bowl in the fridge overnight (at least 12 hours). Remove any rubbery film around the gizzards and pat them dry. Then cook them in duck fat along with 2-3 garlic (skin on) and a few sprigs of thyme on a low heat for an hour. They will be ‘confit’ as we call it in French. Serve the warm gizzards (you can slice them finely if you wish) on top of your salad and drizzle the lovely fruity vinaigrette! Enjoy! Mimi x

  22. SEVEN…..Is a MAGICAL number!How lucky this baby will be to land in your arms and to be brought up with all the BEAUTY you and your husband share.
    XOXOXO

    1. I just love that thought – 7 the magical number! Sending you love and light Contessa! You deserve all the beauty in the world! We are all enjoying your package – you are a star! Mimi x

  23. Lucky number seven! Congratulations to you and your family Mimi! I can’t wait to see what recipes your new cravings will bring! Happy 2014!

  24. Your blog is lovely, so are you and your gorgeous family. Congratulations and best wishes in 2014!!
    PS: inspired by your earlier post made roasted duck stuffed with green pears, roasted potatoes and gateau st. Honore for Christmas Eve dinner. Thank you!!

  25. What lovely news, Mimi! Seven! 🙂 You are going to have your hands full! The book, the TV show, the other 6 beautiful kids and ALL of us dependent upon your extraordinary blog! 🙂 AND, you somehow manage to make it all look so easy and effortless while remaining beautiful doing it!

    The story about your father and your husband’s meeting over a never-ending feast was hilarious! It reminded me of a man I used to date (who was a great cook). He didn’t believe in left-overs or not having enough, and anything left-over just got thrown out. I don’t believe in wasting good food. Sooooo, you can imagine how much weight I gained because if all the food got eaten, he would cook more the next time. It took me a while to figure out what he was doing and beg him to just prepare enough . . . and no more. 🙂

    Anyway, serious congratulations are in order! So, Congratulations! ! ! 🙂

    1. Merci beaucoup Sherrill! Your story about your ex sounds hilarious! And thank you for all your kind words – I feel so fortunate to have such wonderful readers like you! It’s is always a pleasure to share our little adventures here in Médoc – I hope you will enjoy my future posts and the book coming out later this fall! Wishing you a happy new year, filled with light and joy! Mimi x

  26. Congratulations Mimi! Another beautiful addition to your beautiful family.
    Mimi, there is no liquid mentioned in hour pastry recipe. I presume you just use iced water as needed?

    1. Thank you Amber! I hope you had and are still having a beautiful holiday! For the pastry recipe, there is no water added! It’s the secret for a crumbly crust, just pure golden butter bliss! Wishing you a wonderful new year! Mimi x

  27. Congratulations, such a wonderful news!
    Long time lurker, first time commenter 🙂 I love your blog so much! Happy 2014!

  28. Congratulations on the 7! Many blessings for 2014. I loved the post, specially “you can imagine the scenes, my father kept ordering, my husband kept finishing” I can picture this, hilarious!

  29. I’ve tried not to comment earlier, because I feel that my comments always sound weird and awkward on other peoples blogs. I can no longer restrain myself though, so here it comes: Your blog is the most beautiful blog I’ve ever seen. It’s perfect. The texts are phenomenal, and so are the photographs. You have an amazing skill of telling stories about food and ordinary life and make them extraordinary and magical in every way. I love the way you talk about France and the markets and all the dogs and children and food. This is a perfect blog, and I’m so glad I found it. You bring much needed joy and beauty to this sometimes hard life. Thank you for this.

    p.s. Congratulations on the news 🙂 What an awesome way to start a new year!

    1. Oh wow Veera – you make my heart sing! I am so touched, so grateful to hear your kind words. You can’t imagine how happy your comment made me feel, my husband and I have such a passion to share our lives here in Médoc, in the most natural, real and loving way. I hope you can feel it! Sending you love and light from all of us! Best wishes for the nes year! And a huge MERCI! Mimix

  30. Ma chere Mimi,
    What wonderful news!!!!
    Another beautiful Thorisson baby in the world.
    Bisous
    Anita
    p.s. the mince pies look divine…..anything with Calvados in it has my complete attention….a votre santé Mimi

    1. Et à la votre Anita! Thank you for being ever so kind, so supportive, every since day 1! I can’t wait to share more in the new year! Sending much love, and big wishes for the new year! Bonne Année! Mimi x

  31. Mimi, i have been so excited to read your x-mas post! I took a glass of a fantastic roncocucco …
    But, after sawing the b/w picture in Paris i knew for sure that we will get the best christmas news.
    Thank you for sharing.
    We never met but i´m so happy for you and your family and feeling filled with love.
    Your pictures and description are an perfect explosion of ” savoir vivre”. Keep care!
    Hugs, if it´s still posible:)
    Aileen

    1. Thank you Aileen! It is always a pleasure to share our little adventures – I am so grateful to have the best readers in the world! Wishing you a wonderful new year, filled with love, happiness and light! Mimi x

  32. Congratulations Mimi, The New Year will be a wonderful year for you and your beautiful family!
    I adore minced pies, and like you enjoy them over the festive season for breakfast! I am wondering, you mentioned that you prepare the pies in advance so they are ready to pop in the oven at any time, do you freeze them and then pop them in the oven frozen? Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful recipes, I am sure they will become tradition in my kitchen. Best wishes, Kathy x

    1. Bonsoir Kathy! Thank so much for your kind words! We are all so excited for this new year! Regarding the pies, I will save a few for the freezer, and a few for the refrigerator – it always depends on the space I have left! Usually during the holiday season, my fridge is stacked!I can’t tell you how much I enjoy them, preferably in bed, with a good cup of strong tea. It’s the best way to start a festive morning! The flavours, the decadence – I love it 🙂 Happy new year! Mimi x

  33. I have been reading your wonderfully presented food blog for a while and thoroughly enjoy it. Thank you. And congratulations to both of you on number 7. How lucky you are. Enjoy!

  34. Wishing you a great New Year! Thanks for a beautiful Xmas post and yes I also love home made delicious mince pies for breakfast thanks to a lovely friend Joy who has baked them to a traditional English recipe for many years.

  35. I hadn’t heard the expression “at sixes and seven” before, and yet, as one of five siblings, the first thing that came to mind was…you’re having one more! And so it is! Congratulations,
    Mimi – you are so very generous in sharing your recipes and stories, and your personal news. Taking the time to read comments and reply shows that you care; so many ‘celebrity’ chefs appear to be too busy to avail themselves of a few minutes to say ‘thank you’ or ‘you’re welcome’, even with a dozen assistants at hand. Your recipe for Italian Pear Cake was one of my finest finds this year, I’ve made it numerous times and it has been requested to be shared as many, if not more. Wishing you the best for 2014, happy new year!
    -Cinthya:-)

    1. Thank you Cinthya! It is such a pleasure to share our culinary little adventures – it always makes me smile when someone tells me they enjoyed one of our family recipes, so thanks once more! From one happy kitchen to another – it’s all about conviviality, generosity and love! Merci for being so kind, so supportive, and making me feel that this is all so special! Wishing you a happy new year, filled with love and light! Mimi x

  36. Hi Mimi!

    As usual, another over-the-top post! Your stories and descriptions are wonderful in themselves, and Oddur’s photos are icing on the cake!

    Traditions are wonderful, aren’t they? This year I made a prime rib roast dinner on Christmas Eve for my in-laws and some guests. And then I cooked a Filipino Christmas lunch for my mother and her guests.

    What kind of meat is pictured above? The different cuts of meat have a rich dark color and a delicious fatty border! I can’t get that in my local grocery stores :-(. You are lucky to have access to such a variety of produce, charcuterie and meats!

    Congratulations to you and your family on the coming little one! What a beautiful gift for the coming year!!

    1. Hi Olga! Thanks for your kind words! So tell me, what is a Filipino Christmas lunch, I am so intrigued 🙂 Sounds delicious! The meat featured above are: Duck filet (magret de canard), beef Charolais entrecôte, faux-filet, quails, poitrine de Noir de Bigorre (black pig Bigorre belly slices). Just goodies! Wishing you a very happy new year! Mimi x

  37. Congratulations dear Mimi!! How wonderful for you and your family. Thanks for another wonderful post. Happy new year.

    1. Merci chère Rosa! Thank you for being so wonderful and kind! I am so grateful to be surrounded by such kindness! Wishing you a happy new year, filled with love and light! Mimi x

      1. Merci Mimi my magical amie.
        I do love the name Mimi and will make a new version of it for one of my bags.
        All things are connected, I love magic.
        Happy New Year + good food and a happy family to you.
        x Eve

        1. Merci Eve! Your bag designs sound very interesting! I wonder what the Mimi design will look like 🙂 Wishing you a ‘magical’ new year! May all your dreams come true! Mimi x

  38. I can understand that with such a delicious abundance in the French cuisine it must be terribly hard to choose among the delicacies! I think you made truly the best of it Mimi! And congratulations so much!! You must be excited 🙂 Happy New Year to you and your family! I always enjoy reading this blog and look forward to many beautiful and inspiring posts in the future!

  39. I love how you worked your news into the very last sentence!! So happy for you and your family. I anxiously await your posts each week—thank you for always inspiring me with words and beautiful pictures. I look forward to your blog in 2014. Happy New Year!!

  40. A Very Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones.
    Certainly this post was worth the wait!
    Saving the “seven and sevens” news to the end was well, sweeter than the lavender honey nougat and more delightful than the turkish delights. The greatest gift you can give to your children is the gift of selflessness in bringing to them a brother or a sister. Truly, the night stars in Medoc sparkled brighter on Christmas Morning. You are truly an Inspiration!
    MERCI!

  41. Oh Congratulations, Mimi ! What wonderful news of your little one on the way ! I was so looking forward to a Christmas post from you, so I was thrilled to see you really “went to town” with glorious photos in this one – such extravagant beauty ! After my very last of holiday dinners last night the only feast I can bear is the eye candy in your lovely posts. But your surprise at the end left me thinking, what a lucky little one is coming into this world to such a dear woman and her beautiful family ! Happy New Year to you, Mimi !

    1. Oh Linny thank you for your kind words! We wanted to do a little festive post, fillled with all the treats that make this holiday so special – family meals, comfort food, and of course, sweet treats! I hope you will enjoy the recipes! Wishing you a happy new year! Mimix

  42. ah fantastic news! I’ve been waiting in anticipation for this post and it’s beautiful to read – especially with no. 7! wonderful photos and words

  43. Felicitations! What a wonderful post with wonderful news! You are such brilliant writer with a sly cleverness that never fails to charm and satisfy the intellect! And now…expecting…wow…I wish you and your family the best I can offer…for you a happy, comfortable and safe pregnancy, your husband that he can be strong as a rock and flexible as a tree in a gentle storm, for the children the best opportunity to grow in wisdom and compassion… I love keeping in touch with your world because it always inspires me to never forget to embrace my life and my family wholeheartedly with gusto (I have 5 kids too—from ages 6 to 17!) Being a mother is so challenging and rewarding, and with a larger family it is all-consuming…all the more reason to rise to our best, be inspired and inspiring, keep nurturing, refining, and perfecting our dreams as it give life and inspiration to the little ones walking in our wake…thanks for doing that for us, your readers, too.
    With love,
    Valerie

    1. Thank you for your kind wishes! It brings us such joy to share our family adventures, and as you said, to inspire to live a full life, being there for our children, creating memories to be cherished forever. Congrats on your big family, I am sure I will ask you for some advice one of these days! Wishing you a wonderful new year, filled with love and light! Mimi x

  44. Merci Lili! Thanks to everyone’s wonderful wishes and thoughts, and now feel that number seven is my lucky number 🙂 I am ever so grateful for your kindness – thank you! Wishing you a happy new year! Mimi x

  45. Wow, 2014 is going to be a fabulous year for you and your gorgeous family Mimi!
    The arrival of a book and a baby. How exciting. Congratulations to you and your husband.

    1. Merci for your kind wishes! I hope you had (and still having) a lovely ‘holiday’ season! This time of year is a festive state of mind, we try to extend that feeling as long as possible, mostly through treats (and family movies!) 🙂 I do feel as if I am having 2 babies this year… The book is coming out on October 28th 2014, first in the US. I am so excited! Wishing you a wonderful new year! Thank you! Mimi x

  46. Mimi! How do you do it all????
    7 kids? Wow! Congratulations and happy and healthy new year!

    I posted your beautiful mendiants last week and have made them a few other times since. Simply beautiful!
    Stacey

    1. Hi Stacey! I know, 7 kids, who would have known! I guess I always loved ‘the sound of music’! 🙂 We are all so happy and excited! Thank you so much for your kind wishes, and being so much fun – your beautiful posts (you’re so talented!) always make me smile! So happy to hear you enjoyed the mendiants – they look beautiful. Bonne année! Mimi

  47. Congratulations, Mimi, that is wonderful news! Wonderful news. Love the anecdote about your husband finishing the seafood as quickly as your father could order it!

  48. O Mimi, how lovely, congratulations! I have to say, I am truly blown away by your husband’s pictures. It is so refreshing that they are just purely and simply beautiful, and that’s probably why they sometimes make me a bit emotional (in a good way :). I sort of regret I have to look at them on my computer screen; I feel like they deserve better… Your blog has this amazingly cosy and nostalgic vibe to it, which is quite extraordinary. I hope you and your family have a festive new year’s eve, and a happy and healthy 2014. All my love xo

  49. Congratulations! I thought you looked pregnant in that photo and thought it may have been from before.
    What a wonderful life you are living!

  50. Sneaky!! “it’s the last Christmas we’ll have six kids, next year they’ll be seven.”
    Congratulations on child #7. Best wishes for 2014.

    1. Thank you so much Berta! I am so overwhelmed and touched by everyone’s kindness! I hope to share more culinary adventures with you in the new year! Bonne année – Mimi x!

  51. I was just discussing what an amazing genetic make up your kids have – Polish, French, Chinese and Icelandic! All those cultures, traditions! Wonderful! I particularly love your Polish connection but thats because I am Polish myself ;-). Would love to hear some stories about your Polish grandpa, how he got into France, did he miss Poland, did he teach you cooking? Anyway, 2014 will be wonderful for your family! Congratulations!

    1. Bonsoir Zosia! Thank you for your kind wishes! I do feel a special connection with Poland – although I have never been, I often hear stories of relatives and I always enjoy looking at old photographs. Sadly I never got to know my Polish grandfather, he passed away when my mother was a child. But the memories live on – I would love to visit Poland one day, especially around Easter time – I just love all the festive traditions around that time. Wishing you a wonderful new year! Mimi x

  52. Sept enfants? oh how delightful!!
    i’ve always wanted a big family, but am so blessed with 2 girls now older – 8 & 11. your beautiful blog and photographs are a wonder to my eyes! i’m also excited 2 know of your
    upcoming food book – october in the states? i’ll be ordering one for sure!
    living-thru-U-vicariously, jo
    p.s. there are also 7 colors in a rainbow 🙂

    1. Thank you so much Jo! How lovely to hear you have to little girls (Mia my daughter is also 11!). I am so touched by your kind words – we are all so excited with the upcoming book – the entire family contributed to it! Wishing you a happy new year! Mimi x

  53. Greetings from Delaware! I discovered your blog a few months ago and absolutely love it!! I am eagerly waiting for your cookbook (and have already decided to buy extra copies as gifts because I will not be sharing mine;-) Your words, pictures, and recipes are so inspiring. I am reminded each time I read your posts to treasure the little things in life (which, come to think of it, really aren’t that little – family, friends, food, living fully and enjoying each day are pretty big!). My Italian-American husband is the primary cook (always grateful to my MIL for teaching him), but I have found myself in the kitchen more since I discovered your recipes! For New Years Day I will be making black-eyed peas (an African-American tradition) and cornbread, but for 2014 will also be adding roasted pink radishes & carrots with balsamic vinegar & rosemary – I am too excited because I anticipate the pairing to be delicious!! Finally, I must say congratulations on your new addition – Lucky number 7!! Bonne année et bonne santé!!!

    1. Bonsoir Rachel! I just read out your comment to my husband – thank you for making us so happy. We are incredibly touched by everyone’s kindness, it’s wonderful to be here in Médoc and be able to connect with such amazing people like you 🙂 I hope we can meet one day – I will be coming over to the States when for the book launch! Lucky you to have a chef of a husband – by the way black-eyed peas and cornbread sound absolutely delicious – would love to try that myself 🙂 Wishing you a wonderful new year, filled with love and light! Mimi x

      1. Mimi,
        It would be my pleasure to share a family recipe with you! I hope we can meet one day as well. Perhaps I will catch you at a book signing! I am getting ready to read your latest post (and see what will go on my menu this week:-) My best to you and your family! ~Rachel

  54. Congratulations and Merry Christmas! Your writing and photos take me to France in my mind – and I would just love to try some of those meals in Paris! Happy New Year.

  55. hi MiMi, Happy New Year, I’m buys packing to relocate, so happy to get your lastest today ~ love the oysters and the Lavender honey is so devine, aww, congratulations! sweet indeed ~ xo

  56. I was so mesmerized by all your photos but quickly forgot everything at the news of your 7th! It’s great to be part of a big family, so much warmth and happiness 🙂 Bonne année!

  57. Bonjour Mimi!

    I came across your blog a few months back on Saveur’s Best Food Blogs of 2013 – and am ever so glad I did! It is one of the most beautiful things I have seen on the www. Thanks for sharing your lovely stories and your husband’s breathtaking photographs. And congratulations on the pending addition to your gorgeous family!

    Love and a patch of sunshine from Dubai,
    Dinusha

  58. What a beautiful post and what wonderful news!! Congrats to you and your family.
    I look forward to your blog so much, the photo’s are absolutely extraordinary..the recipes – mouth watering and your prose so romantic.
    This is my first time commenting as the joy of a new addition to any family makes my heart sing.
    I look forward to many more delicious posts and photo’s of your baby belly growing.
    All the best from Australia x

    1. Oh thank you Christiana! I am so touched by your kind words – it’s wonderful to feel such kindness and wamrth. Wishing you a very happy new year! Sending you love and light from Médoc! Mimi x

  59. Dear Mimi,
    Congratulations on your wonderful news! You definitely are a wonderwoman in my books to be able to handle 6 (soon 7) children, numerous dogs, cook such delicious food and write about your life in Medoc so beautifully…I know your husband plays a big part too, but still, I’d love to be a fly on the wall somedays!
    Thanks for the gorgeous recipes, they are so inspiring as usual. We just returned from a family Christmas in France, and had melting Mont d’Or cheese for xmas breakfast. Thought of you! As you say, so many choices, all this beautiful food and not enough time to taste it all…decisions, decisions…
    Wishing you and your family a wonderful New Year, may 2014 bring you joy and happiness.

    1. Merci beaucoup for your kind wishes! Well, wonderwoman is a big word, but I do love being a mom! 🙂 My husband and I have always dreamt of a big family, filled with life and laughter! Your Mont D’or for Christmas breakfast sounds perfect – holidays are all about treats and decadence 🙂 Wishing you a wonderful new year! Mimi x

  60. London taxi drivers can be a wonderful fount of knowledge! I love feasting on the wonderful recipes, writing and pictures on your site. Many congratulations on lucky number seven!

  61. What amazing news! Congrats. Best wishes for next year to you and your family.

    I have had great conversations with taxi drivers in Ireland. So much information in 5 minutes! 🙂

  62. What a sweet surprise tucked away in this beautifully scripted post. Mimi! Congratulations, I am thrilled for both you, Oddur and the whole family. What a sweet gift for Christmas.

    Here’s hoping you are feeling well and getting plenty of rest. All the best for the New Year ahead and wishing plenty of luck for you all.

    A

    1. Thank you so much Aimee! I have beend so enjoying your IG posts with your family – those cookies, the meals! Merci for your kind wishes! Sending you much love from Médoc! Happy new year! Mimi x

  63. I am fairly new to your beautiful blog. Have had your Grandmother’s vegetable soup at least four times since November! (It’s chilly in my neck of the woods – below 0 F) Gorgeous posting of family, feast and love. Congrats to you and hope you have a beautiful New Year. This blog always makes me smile.

    1. Thank you Claudia! We also have the soup very regularly, especially for a hearty lunch with tarines with cheese on the side! Wishing you a happy new year! Sending love and light from Médoc! Mimi x

  64. mimi- as the oldest of 7 children at 23 years old i can only tell you what an amazing gift it is. I will never be alone in the world, lonely around the holidays, or without someone to call for a chat. Being part of a huge family is incredible. So much joy to you and your family
    lexan

  65. What lovely news Mimi, congratulations. You are so lovely and I imagine that being pregnant agrees with you and you will be a lovely pregnant women. I adore your blog and the glimpse of life in the Medoc. Would love to talk about dogs sometime, I have always had Jack’s, wondering how you would compare them to Fox terriers.
    All the best in the New Year,
    Patricia

    1. Bonjour Patricia! Bonne année! Thank you so much for your kind wishes 🙂 Oh, I could talk about dogs for hours… I love the playful side of Jacks, they are so loyal and obedient. Fox terriers are so different, more reserved. I always joke with my husband and say they are like Siamese cats (not sure he likes that though!). They’re just so affectionate – both Jacks and Foxes 🙂 Love them both. Bonne soirée, Mimi x

  66. Thank you for the lovely post – always such lovely photos and wonderful recipes. Congratulations to your family on the wonderful news. Looking forward to following your blog in 2014!

  67. Gosh, everything looks perfectly delicious and I’m pretty sure you all had a great time for Xmas and New Year’s.
    Congratulations for the new baby, 2014 is going to be a blessed year for your family. And I hope you can reunite all the children more often because that’s what life is about: spending the best of the times with our beloved ones, all in good health.
    Happy 2014 Mimi :*

  68. Dear Mimi, this is the first time I have left a comment although, like many, I have admired you and all you achieve for a long while now.
    Thank you for all the beauty you have shown us this past year, and congratulations for your growing and totally deserved success. May 2014 be a wonderful cru for your whole family, sounds like you’ll be busy!
    Sharon x

  69. Much congratulations to you! I am another reader who has never commented, but I want to thank you for the inspiring site and for sharing the beauty you create for your family.

  70. Congratulations!!! So so happy for you and your family. 7 is a lucky number ;-).
    I really want to make your mince pies – and have 2 questions that I hope you can answer. 1) If I make one large pie instead – will it work and how would you adjust the recipe / baking time? 2) How do you candy oranges and ginger? Thank you! LOVE your blog!

  71. Congratulations Mimi! Such wonderful news for you and your family. Your blog is a treat to read and looking forward following your adventures in 2014!

  72. Congratulations Mimi for the sweet news! 🙂 I love your wonderful blog and your program on Cuisine+ TV that I always follow when I am in Paris!!!
    Gros bisous de Genes (Italie)!!! ^_^

  73. I just wrote you that I do not comment often, and here I am commenting again. I have been reading backwards to catch up and was so surprised to hear you mention your “bump”! Now I am sure it is true… congratulations Mimi!

  74. Congratulations, Mimi! I’ve been enjoying your posts and the beautiful photos and am compelled to comment for the first time. Very happy for you!

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