France

Many people regard France as the home of gastronomy and Lyon the culinary capital of France so that is where the journey across France begins as Dave and Si explore the 'bouchon' - a restaurant traditionally run by a female chef or 'mere Lyonnaise'. As for their own efforts, they start with a tarte aux pralines and create a saussisson-stuffed brioche. After a quick stop to learn the secrets of teeth-pulling nougat in Montelimar, they go truffle-hunting for the famous white summer truffle which they use to make truffle-infused butter and brie. En route, they also bake an apricot tarte tatin and a delectable flan de St Jean de Minervois (like a crème caramel but made with lavender honey and dessert wine). But it is not all baking on this trip. They also meet up with Dave's old flat mate, French Pat, who he has not seen for 30 years, and they are inducted into the Ancient Order of the Cassoulet when they reach their journey's end in Carcassonne.