Roast Chicken for Sunday night supper… or just something to do with the kids?

The other day I found myself sitting at home with my son, on a Sunday afternoon, not really sure what to do … too tired to go to the playground and feeling too guilty to switch on the television…

I called my friend François Simon, one of France’s most famous food critics. Francois is the equivalent of the UKs AA Gil (yes as sexy as him!) and here is what he sent me…

“Marie, what could be simpler?

Take a three year old (or older) child with you into the kitchen and sit him on a chair next to you and at your level. Over the course of a few Sundays, ask him to watch you closely. Occasionally let him participate encouraging him to make noises and clap.

Nothing is easier than roasting a chicken. Simply stuff it with a preserved lemon - no onion - and a little bit of fresh tarragon. That's it - the chicken is ready for the oven. Take your time - at least an hour and a half – in my mind you can never overcook a chicken. Infact at times, overcooked chicken can actually be a good thing, whereas undercooked... is not good. Nothing is worse than a chicken with pink juices in its armpits.

On the fourth Sunday, ask the child to take over. He will happily tuck the lemon and tarragon inside the chicken (with you supervising, of course) and then skewer the bird making, if he so desires, terrible noises... not dissimilar, in fact, to those in his favourite cartoons.

Then, together, you put the chicken in the oven. You might decide to sit on the floor on a comfortable cushion and watch the chicken cook. It's more relaxing that watching a fire, and certainly better than watching television. You can discuss possible sauces: fresh ginger; balsamic vinegar; honey; coriander; lemon juice or raisins, depending on the time of year.

You can read or tell stories; you can have a bit of quiet time; you could even fall asleep - it's so toasty in front of the cooker. When the chicken is done, the child doesn't necessarily have to eat it - he can help with the carving; he can decorate the lunch plates with coins and chocolate buttons, and then decorate the table too. Believe me, your child will never forget moments like these. Nor will the chicken.”

I simply love this text, it’s so full of poetry … and if you don’t feel like cooking, just read it at aloud!

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