Galette des rois...

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This is one of the most popular traditions in France

that takes place in January every year.

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A "fève" - a small china figurine - is hidden in the galette before baking.

The lucky person who gets the fève is crowned king and chooses his queen

among those present. This takes place all over France in every family,

between friends and work colleagues.

Recipe:

(Serves 8)

1 1/4 lb puff pastry

2 eggs

7 oz almond paste

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Line a baking with baking parchment.

Roll each sheet of pastry into a circle about 12 inches across.Place one circle

on the prepared pan. Mix the egg with the almond paste until smooth

and spread the mixture evenly on the prepared circle of pastry,

leaving a border 1 1/2 inches wide all around.

If you have a small china figurine, insert it into the almond mixture

(you may also use a dried hardened bean as the fève).

Place the second circle of pastry on top and press it down tightly

around the rim. Beat the remaining egg lightly and brush it on the top

of the cake. With a long-bladed knife, press lightly but firmly

through the egg glaze marking a crisscross pattern.

Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and puffed.

Do not open the oven for at least 15 minutes, as the pastry may collapse.

Best served slightly warm

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BON APPETIT !