New on 24Kitchen: Hugo Gets to Know France
24Kitchen chef Hugo Kennis is back on TV. In ‘Hugo Gets to Know France’, the 24Kitchen chef immerses himself completely in French life. Most Dutch people are familiar with France as a holiday destination, but what does it mean to be a true Frenchman in culinary and cultural terms? Where are the differences, and what can we Dutch people still learn from the well-known French joie de vivre? Hugo investigates it for us.
In eight episodes, Hugo travels from popular French locations such as Paris, Lyon and Aix & Provence, to lesser-known villages in Burgundy and the Jura Mountains. Hugo gets to know French customs and habits, with a major focus, of course, on food and drink. A game of pétanque with a bottle of pastis or the elaborate hot lunch culture in southern France are examples of typical habits that embody authentic French life. Hugo has the enjoyable task of taking us along in conversations with locals, participating in traditions and tasting unique regional products.
Paris
Hugo starts his adventure in Paris, where he investigates the French equivalent of the Dutch Friday afternoon drinks. A culinary journey takes him from a wonderfully romantic picnic near the Seine to ‘une petite aperitif’ at one of Paris’ most chic fashion houses, before ultimately joining a table full of real Parisians who introduce him to French chansons.
However, it’s not all travelling around and enjoying himself for Hugo. He also has to roll up his sleeves. In the Jura Mountains, he gets a French holiday job. Hugo starts working at an alpage, a high-altitude cheese farm. In Aix & Provence, he is also put to work and immediately experiences why the French have a two-hour lunch with a hot meal every day—and, naturally, a good glass of wine.
Classic French dishes
Classic French dishes are also featured, as Hugo wants to know whether the French consider escargots just as fancy a dish as we Dutch do. During his search, he makes a very surprising discovery about the origins of the French snail! He also gets behind the grill at a French family home in Lyon, where these locals certainly appreciate his skills.
The examples above are just a small selection of the locations and activities featured in Hugo Gets to Know France. We think it’s a wonderful viewing tip for your next holiday to la douce France.
Hugo Gets to Know France can be watched on 24Kitchen every Saturday at 9:00 PM from September 7.
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