Cyril Lignac, the acclaimed French chef and TV personality, showcased his culinary prowess once again on the December 30, 2024, episode of M6’s cooking show, Tous en Cuisine, where he delighted viewers with his delectable recipe for pizzette topped with raclette cheese, mushrooms, and poached egg. The episode, part of a series aired every day from Monday to Saturday at 6:35 PM, has captivated audiences throughout its run, demonstrating Lignac’s knack for engaging the public with simple yet impressive dishes.
For this mouth-watering pizzette, Lignac’s recipe includes easy-to-find ingredients. To serve four people, you’ll need:
- 220g flour
- 245g coconut or Greek yogurt
- Salt
- 150g raclette cheese, without rind
- 200g mascarpone cheese
- 200g Paris mushrooms
- 150g oyster mushrooms
- 1 egg
- 50g parmesan
- Olive oil
The preparation is straightforward, taking about 15 minutes with just 6 minutes of cooking time. It begins by mixing the flour, yogurt, and salt to create the dough, which is then divided and rolled out. Lignac advises heating mushrooms with olive oil until they are golden brown and then layering the raclette cheese on the dough.
Once the cheese is added, Lignac uses a piping bag to add mascarpone, creates a delightful display with mushrooms, and then finishes by cracking an egg on top before baking. The final touch involves olive oil and parmesan, creating what he dubs as the perfect comforting dish ideal for gatherings.
Behind Lignac's culinary success story is his long-time collaborator and ex-companion, Laurence Mentil. Having joined him back in 2005 as the general director of the Groupe Cyril Lignac, Mentil plays a pivotal role within his kitchen empire. She is often regarded as the "rock" of his operations, highlighting the strong professional bond they've developed over the years.
“With Cyril, we’ve grown together personally and professionally; we are two of a kind,” Mentil expressed in 2017. This unique dynamic has undoubtedly shaped the duo’s success, fostering both amicable and professional collaboration.
Interestingly, Cyril and Laurence's relationship transitioned from romantic partners to close collaborators, which has allowed them to maintain mutual respect and effective communication. "Today, we’re like older siblings to each other. We have moved on with our lives and respect our new partners," Mentil revealed.
Currently, Cyril Lignac shares his life with Debora, with whom he has welcomed their son, Leo. This new chapter adds depth to Lignac's story as he balances his thriving career with family life.
Lignac’s culinary ventures are impressive, with several restaurants and pastry shops under his belt. His flagship restaurant, Le Quinzième, garnered its first Michelin star back in March 2012, setting the tone for his future success. His culinary influence expands beyond France, with recent openings, including his partnership with Louis Vuitton for the Bar des Prés at Heathrow Airport, blending traditional French cuisine with Japanese influences.
Looking forward, Lignac is also set to make his mark on Dubai, with the opening of another Bar des Prés slated for December 2024. This venture is expected to attract food enthusiasts eager to experience refined French gastronomy with breathtaking views.
His television presence continues to thrive as well, with Tous en Cuisine achieving impressive viewership ratings. On the week of its return, it amassed 1.17 million viewers, solidifying Lignac's status as the most beloved chef among French viewers.
The blend of his culinary accomplishments and engaging television personality makes Cyril Lignac not just a chef but also a cultural icon within the French culinary scene. With each pizzette he serves and every dish he presents, he invites viewers and dine-in guests alike to experience not just the flavors of France, but the passion and dedication he brings to his work.
From sharing simple recipes to exploring gourmet experiences, Lignac encapsulates the essence of French gastronomy, proving once more why he is adored by many. His commitment to his craft and his team, especially individuals like Laurence Mentil, ensures his story will continue to be one of growth, collaboration, and delectable dishes for years to come.