Marcus Wareing Simply Provence: Episode 7

In Provence, the markets and shops are awash with an extraordinary array of fresh fruit, all locally produced, and it’s got Marcus thinking. Back home, we love our fruit-based classics like strawberries and cream or apple crumble, and Marcus wants to discover if it’s the same here in France. Do they have a passion for retro recipes? And what simple fruity French dishes could rival our traditional British favourites? Marcus starts with melons, the most popular fruit in Provence. But after trying out a British retro favourite of prawn cocktail served in a melon-half on some local farmers, he quickly realises that the French don’t mess with their melons. It doesn’t go down well.

Keen to redeem himself, Marcus meets a local chef for a France v Britain classic pudding cook-off. Chef Julie makes a traditional apple clafoutis, while Marcus goes for the ultimate simple pud that we all love at home: apple crumble. Determined to further prove that he can do the fruit justice, Marcus then invites the melon farmers over for a dinner of charcuterie, mackerel pâté and baked cheese, accompanied by simple melon slices, much to the relief and delight of the farmers.