Pot-au-feu, a quintessential French classic, has long been celebrated as the heart and soul of French cuisine. Translating to “pot on the fire,” this slow-cooked masterpiece embodies simplicity and tradition, dating back generations to humble working-class kitchens. Pot-au-feu transforms affordable cuts of beef into a meal of rich broth, tender meat, and hearty vegetables—a timeless culinary treasure.

Coq au vin is as synonymous with French culture as hamburgers are with American. It’s a dish I grew up eating quite a bit and still find very satisfying and comforting when I’m longing for my mother and dreaming of France. The sauce is packed with flavor and begs for a starchy vehicle to soak it up. Classically, boiled or mashed potatoes are served with it, but I think spätzle, noodles, or a creamy potato gratin work better.