This cookbook, on the fine art of simple French cooking, was inspired by Alexandra Dumaine, the chef-proprietor of the renowned Hotel de la Cote d'Or. The recipes contained herein are essentially easy dishes to cook; some may take more time to prepare than others, but none of them are complicated, neither do they require rare or expensive ingredients. The nature of the repertoire has been varied as much as possible, in order to cater for a cross-section of the public who, for specific reasons, may be interested in different methods and time limits of cooking. There are dishes that are easily and rapidly prepared in a matter of minutes; others that can safely be left to simmer for three hours. There are numerous economical dishes; labor-saving dishes which, like several others in the book, improve on being reheated. For large families, there are delicious soups and stews, which serve eight, ten, twelve persons. Likewise, there are multipurpose recipes, from which four separate dishes can be made. Many recipes are original and entertaining; all are sumptuous Finally, there are useful hints and suggestions for preparing and improving the dishes to ensure less experienced cooks achieve excellent results. In addition to the fifty-six carefully chosen recipes that have been extracted from the author's own repertoire of dishes you'll find recipes gleaned from widely different cources: from the greatest living French chef to the humble fishmonger, and other back-room cooks of the Latin Quarter in Paris. The proprietors of some of France's favorite bistros have kindly let us in on some of their closely-guarded secrets, and eight new ones, with their recipes, have been added to the list of our latest discoveries. The most famous of the Paris restaurateurs have also come up to scratch and have divulged What They Eat When Alone. It is hoped that this medley of recipes may be a source of inspiration to those who are keen to experiment, in their own kitchens, with simple and satisfying dishes to be enjoyed by the family, and by discerning guests who appreciate good and honest French cuisine."