Bresse chicken holds a revered status in France, celebrated as the country's most esteemed and costly poultry variety. Native to Burgundy, from which it derives its name, this breed is acclaimed for its marbled meat and distinctive appearance, featuring stark white feathers, a bright red comb, and slate blue feet that evoke the colors of the French flag. Encountering poulet de Bresse on a menu is as commonplace as finding Dijon mustard or a bottle of Pinot Noir.
This information comes from Eva Longoria, who takes a moment during the filming of her CNN travel show, Searching for France, set to premiere on April 12. We find ourselves in the kitchen of Clos du Cèdre, a Michelin-starred restaurant located in Beaune, a picturesque medieval town known as the wine capital of Burgundy, where Longoria will be based for the next few days. So far, she mentions, she has ordered the dish for dinner on both nights. “I continue to be surprised by the regionality of French cuisine,” she notes. “Wherever I travel, I ask: Where did this dish originate? What is its story?”
The concept of culinary origin stories—the historical context and significance of ingredients within a culture—serves as the central theme of Longoria's show, now in its third season. Her previous seasons took her to Mexico, her family's homeland, and Spain, where she explored her colonial heritage. In an age where numerous travel shows are hosted by celebrities, Longoria stands out as an enthusiastic and inquisitive traveler on screen.
Her personal ties to Mexico and Spain made her a natural choice for CNN, especially in light of the success of Stanley Tucci's Searching for Italy. Longoria explains that France was a logical selection for the third season, having developed a profound affection for the country following her marriage to French-American basketball player Tony Parker. “I had the opportunity to experience France through the eyes of the French,” she remarks. “It's a beautiful experience, as they have such a deep appreciation for their country.” This passion for French cuisine and culture is evident during our morning of filming in the Clos du Cèdre kitchen.
Highlights of her journey include sampling Aquitaine caviar in Bordeaux, crafting cheese in Alsace, and embarking on a challenging boat ride along the Brittany coast. “It was pouring rain, freezing cold, and everyone was feeling seasick,” Longoria recalls. “But then a blue lobster emerges, and it's the most stunning blue I've ever seen.”
In France, Longoria feels a profound connection to her roots. “I was raised consuming rabbit and frog legs on our ranch in Texas. My father firmly prohibited fast food. We cultivated everything we ate, including the turkey for Thanksgiving,” she shares. “I've always maintained a strong relationship with simplicity in eating and cooking. Discovering this parallel in France is incredibly fascinating to me.”
This authenticity undoubtedly contributes to her potential as an exceptional travel host, continuing the legacy of renowned figures like Anthony Bourdain.
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