martinimade

The Great British Bake Off is one of my favorite shows.* I love it so much that I've figured out how to watch content that is blocked in the U.S. -- Tunnel Bear is involved -- even though I hate having to learn how to do things like that.

Yes, yes, the Britishness of it is a huge draw. But it's one of those shows where I feel both smarter and more empowered after I've watched it. Not only is it great to hear knowledgeable people talk about baked goods, it makes me want to bake my own. 

Which is why I decided to knock up some Kouign amann last night. I had all five ingredients in the house. While the whole recipe takes a few hours to complete, you're only paying attention to it for a few minutes every now and again. Plus, I wanted something sweet and have always wanted to give laminated pastry a go.

Last rise.

Out of the oven.

In my belly.

I can't begin to tell you how satisfying the whole exercise was. Were they perfect? Heh. No. Paul Hollywood would have been withering with his scorn. But I also don't care because I had the pleasure of both the process and the eating. 

-----------------------------------------

* Don't waste your time withe the American version, which was fine but lacked Mel and Sue, who are integral to the format's success.

** I also love the Great British Sewing Bee but it's not airing right now.