From starters to desserts, during 4 weeks, Claudine shared with us all her best recipes. We know a son – the cofounder of monbento – that is really lucky! Who is she? What is her cooking background? She tells us everything!
Hello Claudine, would you introduce a bit of yourself?
Hello, my name is Claudine, I am 55 years old (alas!), I am an employee in an import-export firm and I am living in a little small countryside pavilion.
1. When did you start cooking? Do you remember the first dish you made?
My interest for cooking started when I was a teenager. My mother did not like cooking desserts (and I was really greedy!), so I felt like cooking some. My first recipe? Eggs snow. Of course, I failed the custard… However, I kept trying and now I do it perfectly!
2. Do you cook every day?
I cook everyday because I had to, but when I have to cook for my relatives this is really pleasant and relaxing. However, to be honest, the “everyday cooking” is a real headache.
3. How do you feel when cooking for your beloved family?
Cooking a meal for my family gives me a little adrenaline rush (buying products, quantities…) because I want everything to be perfect and enjoyed.
4. How did you learn to cook?
As I said earlier, my mother made me want to become a cook. Later, I found the inspiration in grandmother’s cookbooks and through my circle’s advices.
5. When and how did you start creating your recipe?
When my children were old enough to enjoy a meal, I started creating recipes taking into account their tastes and wishes.
6. What is the secret of making a good French dish?
You need quality products, proper material and of course a lot of time!
7. In your opinion, is there a bento culture in France? What are your secrets for a yummy bento?
The bento culture in France is evolving because we still value meals taken with our family. However, we use bento boxes increasingly because of our lifestyle and working constraints.
A yummy bento should be healthy, tasty and colourful.
8. How do you use your monbento lunch box?
In my point of view, the bento is appropriated for family or friend outing. About bento decorations… Shhh! I keep some secrets!
9. Do you share your recipes and your tips with your children?
I am very pleased when I give advice to my children on any particular recipes. Like that, even if they are far from me, I keep in touch with them (and it is good to be needed!).
10. In your opinion, does food can bring people together?
Eating is a necessity, let’s do it over a good meal. It is perfect to build relationships!
11. How did you get the idea of sharing Mother’s Day recipes with monbento?
For the record, if I shared some simples and easy recipes adapted to bento boxes, it is because of my son, a co-founder of monbento, who nicely asked me to send them on the brand website. I cannot refuse anything to him!
From the whole monbento team: enjoy Mother’s Day, Claudine, and thank you again for sharing with us your talent and your love for cooking.