Cuisses de grenouille

Back in September we were kindly invited for an "apératif dînatoire" (basically a drink and finger-food) at a couple's house that have a son in Grace's class.  That evening the subject of "frogs' legs" came up, to which the classmate of Grace started oohing and aahing and licking his lips, much to the astonishment  of both girls.  I remember Lily's puzzled face and her asking, "What do you do, just grab one and start chewing?"  Although far from being a frog-eatin'-expert, I assured her that before showing up on the table, they were no longer hopping and had been cooked.

Anyways, our hosts immediately pledged to treat us to some "cuisses de grenouille".  We had to wait 8 months until frog season in spring, but they certainly followed through on their promise

We walked 2 minutes to the "Lyonnais Bistro" for another gastronomic adventure.  We were greeted at the front door by the extremely friendly chef who shouted out, "Where are the Canadians that have come to eat frog legs?" and proudly brought out this platter to show us.  I have to admit, my tastes buds didn't start watering at the sight.

I was expecting a plate of frog thighs on a plate to share before our meals, but not so.  We each got a large bowl all to ourselves chocker-block full of frogs' legs, butter and garlic.  Our friend also asked for some lemon to squeeze on top; a must in his estimate.  The chef very reluctantly obliged.  

Usually Grace is our "petite gourmande", but in this case it  was Grace that was a little unsure (until it came time to soak the bread in the sauce left at the bottom and sample from the cheese plate!) and Lily who couldn't get enough!  Lily told me that night that she wanted to eat frogs' legs everyday and sure enough she was asking for them the next day!  

Here's Barry's take on the meal:

I found the experience a bit to be like eating crab.  A lot of work for a little reward.  It was definitely not my favourite meal as I struggled a little with the tibia. There was very little meat on the lower portion of the leg and my friend instructed me on the proper technique which involved sucking the leg.  Fine enough instructions indeed but I couldn't get past the little frog foot that was still attached to the end of the leg.  Grace really revelled in playing with the webbed feet and displaying them to everyone.  This just turned my stomach a little more.  Thankfully, Lily happily finished my remaining two legs.  The entre was preceded by an amazing starter, followed by a wonderful raspberry tart with a fabulous cheese plate to end, so overall the meal was one of the most enjoyable ones that we have had in France.