Little Luxuries: Crisped Breadcrumbs with a Golden Mustard Smear

Beautiful ones, Freya and I have decided to welcome you to our oasis of understated luxury with a little "excitement of the mouth," as the French are wont to say. Perhaps you're only accustomed to savoring a delicate amuse-bouche at 5-star restaurants, when they emerge--tiny miracles, labors of love--directly from the chef's hands. But what's wrong with recreating a little elegance at home? This tantalizing tidbit is perfect for those days when, weary from endless racks of vintage couture and infinite art gallery openings, you crave a certain relaxation tinged with opulence.

Ingredients:

• High-quality slice of bread
• A good exotic mustard (I adore Bulgarian, Freya prefers Azerbaijani)

Directions:

1. Toast the bread. For richer flavor, use an open fire.
2. Place toasted bread on an attractive plate. Move it around a bit. Listen to the crumbs falling off the bread like little stars.
3. Once the plate is sprinkled with breadcrumbs, remove the toast and throw it away.
4. Dab a dollop of mustard on the edge of the plate. Pay attention to the symmetry of the dish. Does the end result sing? If not, break the dish in two and start over again.

Curl up in front of a roaring fire and savor the interplay of flavor and texture. Enjoy with a glass of Chateau Margaux 1995.