Cultural discovery through Crème Brûlée

Crème Brûlée opened a door into a cuisine I'd previously known almost nothing about. The rich and refined flavours are unlike anything in my usual rotation and I mean that positively. French cuisine is a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Understanding that context made the dish taste different — richer with meaning.

I learned that shallots is central to this cuisine's character, not just a seasoning. The a countryside auberge setting was authentic and helpful for understanding what I was eating. Champagne completed the picture. A genuinely educational meal.