The Parisian Macaron (or Macaroon) is the stylishly light French confection tipped to be the new cupcake and finally hitting the glossies outside France. The art of making macarons is highly respected in France, as it requires precision and technique to create its delicate airy meringue-based shell with a moist centre of fragrant custard cream or chocolate ganache. Macarons can be a challenge for the beginner, but the process is made much easier and fun in this colourful new book from Jill Colonna. She guides you precisely through each step in making perfect Parisian macarons and explains simply and clearly her secrets so you can also make macarons like the French. Starting with classic macaron flavours such as rose, pistachio, chocolate, lemon and vanilla, she then encourages you to be creative with her inspiring chocolate combinations such as pistachio-wasabi and others with a Scottish twist. Dazzle guests with macarons as a basis for chic desserts. Or amaze them with Jill's latest creation of the lightest, sugar-reduced, hot and spicy Tikka Mac'sala or Thai green curry macarons which are sensational either before or during dinner. Suggested wines and speciality teas are suggested for each macaron recipe, along with presentation ideas for weddings, children's parties, gifts plus many other tips. (You will discover that making Parisian macarons can be the most gratifying and addictive of life's little luxuries to make at home yourself.) AUTHOR: Jill thought patisserie and macarons were hard to make when she first moved to France, after she fell in love with a Frenchman in her native Scotland. Making the move to Paris in 1993, Jill couldn't speak much French and had never needed to entertain before. Realising her banana surprise with custard from a packet mix was not going to hack it with her French dinner guests, she needed to improve her culinary skills tout de suite in order to impress. Over the years she has gained confidence by learning cookery tricks from her French friends and family. As a busy working mum, Jill began to make patisserie as a hobby - partly as a challenge, and partly for her budget. Calling herself a "lazy gourmet", she loves exploring ways to make impressive-looking treats without spending too much time or money on them, while keeping the authenticity of pastry's exquisite taste. Previously a professional musician, Jill continues to enjoy playing flute and piano and also conducts chocolate shop and patisserie walking tours around St Germain des Pres in Paris.