During quarantine I definitely took part in the baking trend. I just made it travel related. A big component of traveling is enjoying the food. I decided to recreate some of my favorite baked goods that reminded me both of places and friends. I wasn’t able to physically go, but I in a way I was able to travel to them through taste. Below are my three favorite bakes. You will find photos and a little description, if you are unfamiliar with them. The recipe will also be there, if you would like to bake them for yourself!
Portugal – Pastéis de Nata
If you’ve read any of my previous posts about my travels to Lisbon, this egg custard should be no surprise. It was love at first bite. I had never made a pastry dough before, but did my best to attempt one. I knew it wasn’t exactly easy, but was still surprised at how much work went into it. I made the dough and chilled it overnight ( I was also very tired) and on the second day made the egg custard and baked the pastry. I was unable to brown the tops of the pastry but I was still pleasantly delighted by my recreation. They were quite tasty and fulfilled my cravings!
Link for the recipe (includes video) here.
St. Croix – Butter Bread
I obviously missed my home and family during quarantine. My plans to visit St. Croix were cancelled. One of the baked goods that I ate for breakfast growing up was butter bread. The name basically explains what it is, lots of butter that creates a soft doughy bread. It is amazing when it is still warm. Baking this bread filled the kitchen with its aroma and it transported me to the mornings I spent eating butter bread with my family. One thing l learned, is that I am not the best at rolling dough. Have to practice my technique.
Link for the recipe here.
Asian Bakery – Coconut Cream Bun
This one is not really a place but more about my friends. A friend introduced me to the Asian bakeries in her neighborhood and the first treat that I tasted was a coconut cream bun. I immediately became obsessed with them. My friend’s mom always had a bunch of them waiting for me whenever I visited. As much as I love this bun, to me it was more about visiting my friends and spending time with them. Hopefully, we will be reunited soon! The hardest part about this one for me was whisking the coconut cream. It was an arm workout.
Link for the recipe here.