Discover the Latest Culinary Innovations by Jean-Georges Vongerichten

World - renowned French chef and restaurateur Jean - Georges Vongerichten is showcasing his culinary skills in the TODAY kitchen by preparing two classic Parisienne recipes ahead of the 2024 Olympics . He demonstrates how to create a perfectly roasted chicken with potatoes and a decadent chocolate mousse , both dishes that have been part of his repertoire for many years.

Vongerichten emphasizes the importance of using high - quality ingredients in these recipes , a philosophy he adopted from his upbringing in Alsace . Chicken and potatoes hold a special place in French cuisine , with roast chicken being a popular choice across the country . Growing up in Alsace , Vongerichten 's diet often consisted of chicken and potatoes , a tradition passed down through generations in his family.

Learning to cook at a young age alongside his mother , Vongerichten was taught the significance of cooking chicken on the bone to enhance the flavor . The juices from the chicken seep into the potatoes during cooking , elevating the dish 's taste . This simplicity in ingredients and focus on quality is a hallmark of Vongerichten 's cooking style.

Moving on to dessert , chocolate mousse is a classic French sweet treat that is beloved by many . Vongerichten 's expertise in pastry , acquired during his apprenticeship at Auberge de l'Ill , helped him perfect the art of making chocolate mousse . The key lies in achieving the perfect balance of texture , not over - whipping the cream , and using high - quality chocolate and cream.

With only two main ingredients , chocolate mousse is a versatile dessert that can be customized with various toppings like fresh fruit or puff pastry chopsticks . Vongerichten 's experience of over 25 years in making this dessert has allowed him to experiment with different garnishes , showcasing the endless possibilities of this simple yet delicious recipe.

In conclusion , Jean - Georges Vongerichten 's culinary creations reflect his dedication to using top - notch ingredients and preserving the traditions of French cuisine . His expertise in crafting classic dishes like roasted chicken with potatoes and chocolate mousse demonstrates his commitment to quality and simplicity in cooking . For those who appreciate authentic French recipes , Vongerichten 's creations are a must - try.