- La Bouche
- Nov 13
- 3 min read
What's in my basket?
Here are my favourite ingredients to keep in your pantry or fridge, the little things that make all the difference (according to me). With these, it’s less problemo, more gusto. Fewer ingredients, but the best ones.
. A flavourful peper
Peppers are fascinating. There are so many kinds: long ones, red, grey, black, green... hot, fragrant, sweet. After trying a few, my favourite is Voatsiperifery, a wild pepper from Madagascar: mildly hot, very aromatic, nutty, and slightly floral. Perfect for my adorable cacio e pepe.
. A seasoned salt
This one was a gift, and I loved it instantly. A very economical way to enjoy pasta: pasta + butter + this parmesan salt = beauty. It’s also incredible with potatoes, eggs, fresh tomatoes, or in a béchamel. L’essayer, c’est l’adopter.
. Salt crystal butter
I’m French, so butter has been a main part of my diet since childhood. Nothing beats a fresh baguette with butter. And (as you’ve probably realised by now) pasta is another big love of mine, and butter on pasta is a must. Imagine a butter that tastes like milk and grass, with crunchy little flower of salt crystals pieces. Divine.
. Maggi
A very specific, hard-to-describe item: the “Arôme Maggi.” I grew up in the east of France, near the German border, and this little bottle was always on the family table to season soup, salad, pasta… everything really. It’s like a concentrated broth, very salty and deep. A bit like Vegemite or Marmite in spirit. Try a few drops (or more) and you’ll see.
. Good quality italian pasta
The best ones have a slightly white, powdery surface. Brands like Rummo and La Molisana are great. Fav shapes: Radiatori and Fusilli Corti Bucati.
All of the above make up most of my quick, economic, and efficient meals. It’s my comfort food.
Now, let’s move on to the Asian basics.
. Chilly oil
My favourite way to spice things up. It’s not just spicy: it’s toasted, it’s fatty (yes, good ingredients are often fatty). Perfect to season cucumbers, noodles, eggs…
. Japanese baby mayo
A delicious, eggy mayo. Tastes like a homemade mayo with real eggs. Lovely in a noodle broth, with fries, asparagus, or a potato salad.
. Carbo spicy ramen
I know, sounds suspiciously good. You know how a noodle broth can heal your body, heart, and soul? This one’s creamy, spicy, and the perfect remedy for a hard day. But be careful with the sauce! Half the packet is enough for me. Add scallions, pak choi, dumplings, an omelette, or a soft-boiled egg to make it a full meal.
"L'apéritif", a very important, convivial French ritual: sharing a drink with your partner, family, or friends before dinner. Not every day, but on a hard day, or to celebrate the weekend, it’s a small festive moment. Here’s what makes me happy at l’apéro:
. Pepsi Cola Vanilla
I discovered it in Australia, and I’m not sure it’s available elsewhere. The perfect cola: fizzy, caramelised, custardy, maple-syrupy. And the zero sugar version is just as good!
. Sparkling water with a plus
I loved San Pellegrino Momenti back in France, though I haven’t seen it in a while, maybe discontinued? Mount Franklin Pineapple in Australia was also amazing. And on a terrace, I’d go classic: strawberry syrup + Perrier. Everything bubbly, low sugar, and slightly fruity = my dope!
. Les CORNICHONS
Ok, at this stage it's almost an obsession. I have to precise, French pickles: sour, bitter, strong on vinegar, crunchy, small and easy to snack. Maybe it's hard to eat them just like that for beginers but always a nice condiment to have.
. The most mainstream spicy sauce
Tabasco! Love the design, a timeless classic. Perfect for my signature apéro sauce (mayo + ketchup + cognac + Tabasco). Or to add a few drops into diced pickles and carrots for a cheeky, healthy snack.
. Vinegar crips
Controversial, I know, but I have a bitter tooth. Tyrrells are the best: extra crunchy, and made with cider vinegar (never balsamic!).
. Roasted chicken riettes
Basically, a chicken skin spread: soft, fatty, comforting. On fresh bread, it’s just heaven.
In the future, I’ll share a little guide to the best places to fill your basket in Paris: tea, coffee, spices, Italian products…