This month I am featuring a German recipe for an open-faced sandwich called Strammer Max. The backstory is in the recipe and explains the origins. It is simply delicious and very easy. You typically serve it with little pickles called Cornichon Cucumbers which are originally French or Gurken which are German. The jars you purchase may also come with small white onions. These chilled little pickles are a crunchy side that is perfect with any sandwich.
So, what is the history of the Cornichon? As near as I can tell, it starts on the palace grounds of Versailles just outside of Paris. There were 23 one-acre garden plots now maintained by the French National Landscape Architecture School. It is home to over seven hundred different species of fruits and vegetables. Cornichons were first grown in the gardens used by King Louis the Fourteenth.
This is an inspiration for this time of year as Dave and I get ready to cultivate our garden for spring!
From my table to yours,
Your Galley Guide
