Mère Léa Bidaut

Welcome to Fabulously Delicious, the French Food Podcast, where we delve into the heart of French cuisine. Hosted by Andrew Prior, a former MasterChef Australia contestant turned French food aficionado, each episode is a delectable journey into the world of French ingredients, dishes, and the vibrant personalities shaping its culinary landscape.In today's episode, we celebrate the life and legacy of Mère Léa, an iconic figure in French gastronomy. Born Léa Bidaut in Le Creusot in 1908, Mère Léa's culinary journey took her from the industrial heart of Burgundy to the vibrant food scene of Lyon. There, she opened her famed restaurant, La Voûte, Chez Léa, where she introduced now-classic dishes like champagne sauerkraut and macaroni gratin. Her influence on French cuisine is still celebrated today, and her recipes remain beloved staples.Join us as we explore Mère Léa's contributions to French culinary history, including her famed potato paillasson and Canard au sang. Learn about her rise to culinary stardom, her vibrant personality, and her lasting impact on Lyon's gastronomic scene. Discover how she became the first woman to join the prestigious Toques Blanches Lyonnaises and earned her Michelin star, cementing her legacy in French culinary history.Looking to deepen your culinary journey beyond the podcast? Andrew's latest book, Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City, is your passport to gastronomic delights in the City of Lights. Packed with recommendations for boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, and more, this guide ensures you savor the best of Parisian cuisine.Find Andrew's book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City and explore more at www.andrewpriorfabulously.com For a signed and gift-packaged copy of the book, visit https://www.andrewpriorfabulously.com/book-paris-a-food-guide-to-the-worlds-most-delicious-city  Also available on Amazon and Kindle.For those craving an immersive French food experience, join Andrew in Montmorillon for a hands-on cooking adventure. Stay in his charming townhouse and partake in culinSend us Fan MailSupport the showMy book Paris: A Fabulous Food Guide to the World’s Most Delicious City is your ultimate companion. This is a new 2026 update for the book and you’ll find hand-picked recommendations for the best boulangeries, patisseries, wine bars, cafés, and restaurants that truly capture the flavor of Paris. You can order it online at andrewpriorfabulously.com For those who want to take things further, why not come cook with me here in Montmorillon, in the heart of France’s Vienne region? Combine hands-on French cooking classes with exploring charming markets, tasting regional specialties, and soaking up the slow, beautiful pace of French countryside life. Find all the details at andrewpriorfabulously.comYou can help keep the show thriving by becoming a paid subscriber on substack where you'll also get fabulous extra content. Every contribution makes a huge difference. Join here at Substack , Merci beaucoup!Newsletter Youtube Instagram Facebook Website