Walking the Way of St. James pilgrim path across France through the countryside, I stayed mostly in family owned B&Bs called gites. These are the family recipes they served, often with most products from their garden and farm. Plus my friend in Bordeaux shared some of her family recipes with me. They are unique and delicious. All the recipes are simple. This is not fancy French cooking, but home cooking for everyday, hearty eaters. All the recipes I have made myself, and made some adjustments because the same ingredients are not available here. They are good! Illustrations are from my sketchbook diary, on the day I had the dish!