4:52:00 PM
A few years ago, the foodie world went mad for macarons. People were spending a small fortune on these pretty French cookies, while others attempted to recreate them in their own kitchens. I, personally still have flashbacks from times I tried to make them; there are so many things to consider. Should you use aged egg whites or plain old regular egg whites? Leave the oven door ajar or leave it closed? It was a nightmare.
Then along came the cronut. Ah, yes, these croissant/doughnut hybrids are certainly tasty. Once again people were lining up outside on pavements desperate to buy this new wonder pastry. Some brave bakers even tried making them at home. I warn you, homemade cronuts are not for fainthearted. Frying up these large buttery pastries in a small kitchen is pretty terri-frying!
Photo by Catherine.Drew
Now the foodie world is buzzing about the French éclair, and for once I am genuinely excited. The French éclair is, for me, simply perfection. It’s got it all: delicate pastry, creamy and light crème pâtissière, and a thin film of glossy chocolate. They are also simple to make, which makes me happy.
Choux pastry might sound scary, but it’s actually one of the easiest pastries to make. Then the filling can be as simple as whipped cream or the more traditional (and a little more difficult) crème pâtissière.
Photo by Vicky McDonald
What is different about this new French eclair is purely aesthetics. The reinvented éclair — currently trending in big cities all over the world — is a little more high-class and fashion focused. These pretty pastries are dressed up with gold leaf, candied rose petals, pralines, and mini meringues. They are works of art. Stores like Maitre Choux in London, L’Éclair de Génie in Paris and Japan are more like art galleries than pastry stores. These modern éclairs are not only beautiful, but some carry messages too: Éclair Gay Pride, Éclair 4th of July – they celebrate life!
Photo by Vicky McDonald
Recently, I took a trip to Choukette in Seattle to sample these new arty eclairs for myself. The minute you walk in the door, you feel like you are somewhere special. The éclairs are all laid out like jewels, all glossy and shiny beneath a glass counter.
Photo by Vicky McDonald
I wanted them all – lemon curd with meringue drops, praline with chocolate and hazelnut cremeux, strawberry and lime with fromage blanc. After much deliberation, I carefully chose two, and both were wrapped up in a fancy box and bag, like an expensive pair of shoes.
Photo By Laura Fakhry
These éclairs aren’t cheap, but then again, it’s all about the experience. It’s the perfect treat to spoil yourself, or a great gift for a friend. Personally, I can’t resist them, and I will be indulging with these posh éclairs when I can. Meanwhile, I will also be experimenting at home with some simple éclair recipes, and might even attempt some adventurous fillings too.
Try your hand!
Want to master the mighty macaron? How to Make Macarons
Other hot food trends:
- We’re Loving This New Vegan Trend: Aquafaba
- Cooking with Algae Oil
- Make Mason Jar Meals to Eat Anywhere
Get more cooking tips and awesome food finds.
The post Say Hello to the New French Pastry Craze appeared first on Allrecipes Dish.
from Allrecipes Dish
0 comments:
Post a Comment