Louisette Bertholle

Photo of Louisette Bertholle

Louisette Bertholle (26 October 1905 – 26 November 1999) was a French chef and author, best known for her collaboration with Julia Child and Simone Beck on the influential cookbook Mastering the Art of French Cooking. Bertholle played a significant role in introducing French cuisine to American audiences.

Early Life

Louisette Bertholle was born on 26 October 1905 in Paris, France. She developed an interest in cooking at a young age, influenced by the rich culinary traditions of her homeland.

Career

Bertholle's career in the culinary arts began in earnest when she met Simone Beck in the late 1940s. Together, they started a cooking school in Paris called L'École des Trois Gourmandes (The School of the Three Gourmands). The school aimed to teach American women the art of French cooking.

Collaboration with Julia Child

In 1950, Bertholle and Beck met Julia Child, an American who had moved to Paris with her husband. The three women formed a close partnership and began working on a comprehensive French cookbook for American audiences. This collaboration resulted in the publication of Mastering the Art of French Cooking in 1961. The book was a massive success and is credited with transforming American cooking by introducing French techniques and recipes.

Later Life

After the success of Mastering the Art of French Cooking, Bertholle continued to work in the culinary field, though she did not achieve the same level of fame as her co-authors. She published several other cookbooks, including French Cooking for Every Occasion and Secrets of the Great French Restaurants.

Death

Louisette Bertholle passed away on 26 November 1999 in Paris, France.

Legacy

Bertholle's contributions to the culinary world, particularly her role in the creation of Mastering the Art of French Cooking, have left a lasting impact. The book remains a seminal work in the field of gastronomy and continues to inspire both amateur and professional chefs.

Related Pages

• Julia Child
• Simone Beck
• Mastering the Art of French Cooking
• French cuisine
• L'École des Trois Gourmandes