Every chef makes mistakes — but the best know how to correct them. This article identifies the most frequent defects in texture, melt, and flavor, and explains their causes and remedies. Perfect for troubleshooting and refining your technique.
Ice cream mastering 7/8: fixing the flaws in frozen desserts Read More »
Explore the diversity of frozen desserts. From custard-based ice creams to fruit-forward sorbets, Italian gelato, and plated sundaes, this article highlights formulation specifics and creative combinations, using real recipe examples to illustrate the techniques.
Ice cream mastering 6/8: exploring styles, textures, and techniques Read More »
A professional method from start to finish. From weighing and pasteurizing to maturation, churning, and hardening, this article offers a detailed workflow for every batch you make. Includes hygiene best practices and balancing tips to prevent mistakes and optimize results.
Often misunderstood, these are the silent heroes of ice cream formulation. Learn how stabilizers control iciness and improve shelf life, while emulsifiers create smooth textures and support air incorporation. Includes advice on dosing, types, and how to integrate them properly into your base.
A deep dive into the core components of any frozen dessert. From milk, cream, and butter to dextrose, egg yolks, and fruit purées, this article explains how to choose and balance ingredients based on their technical function and sensory impact.
This article explores the science behind structure and texture. You’ll learn how water, fat, sugars, and air interact to form the frozen matrix, how freezing point depression works, and how emulsions and foams behave during production. This is essential reading for anyone looking to control texture with precision.
Ice cream mastering 2/8: understanding physicals and chemicals properties of Ice cream Read More »
In the world of pastry and frozen desserts, ice cream is both a universal favorite and a true test of precision, technique, and creativity. As a professional chef, I’ve come to see ice cream not just as a product, but as a craft that demands deep knowledge and a structured, scientific approach. That’s why I
Ice cream mastering : the definitive article Read More »
From ancient snow-cooled desserts to modern artisan labs, and from Italian gelato to French crème glacée, this article traces the evolution of ice cream through time. It also breaks down the strict legal classifications that define what can be called ice cream, sorbet, or frozen dessert, so you can create with both authenticity and compliance.
There’s something wonderfully indulgent about transforming humble leftovers into a dessert that feels both nostalgic and elegant. Take that forgotten scraps of pie crust, almond cream, and a mix of ripe summer stone fruits—peaches, plums, nectarines, apricots—and you’ve got the makings of a stunning Orchard Pie. This is the kind of dessert that requires little effort but delivers big on flavor. Press the leftover crust into a rough, free-form tart, slather it with velvety almond cream, and pile high with sliced fruits, their juices caramelizing as they bake. Serve it warm, just as it is, for a rustic treat with a dollop of whipped cream. Or take it further: plate a slice with a glossy quenelle of apricot ice cream, the tangy sweetness balancing the nutty richness of the filling. For a playful twist, crumble leftover apricot pie into a glass, layer it with luscious roasted apricot ice cream, and drizzle with apricot coulis for a sophisticated sundae that tastes like summer in a spoon. Simple, versatile, and utterly delicious—this pie is proof that the best desserts often come from what’s already on hand.
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A sundae is a classic ice cream dessert made with scoops of ice cream topped with sweet sauces, syrups, and various toppings like whipped cream, nuts and sprinkles. Unlike a simple bowl of ice cream, a sundae is all about indulgence—layering flavors and textures for a richer treat. Today, sundaes come in countless variations—from the classic hot fudge sundae to extravagant creations with caramel, fruit, cookies and so on. Whether served in a glass dish or a waffle cone, the sundae remains a beloved symbol of ice cream creativity. Indulge in an exquisite twist on the classic sundae, crafted with my latest artisanal ice creams like the roasted apricot. These vibrant flavors intertwine in harmony, elevated by layers of flaky leftovers pie, a swirl of apricot marmalade, red fruit coulis and toasted nuts!
Today we’re diving into a timeless favorite—strawberry ice cream! Beloved by kids (and adults alike), this creamy, fruity delight captures the essence of summer with every spoonful.
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Today, let’s dive into this fabulous banana-lime ice cream—a creamy, tangy, and refreshing treat that’s perfect for summer (or anytime you need a tropical escape!). The sweetness of ripe bananas pairs magically with the bright zing of fresh lime, creating a flavor that’s both rich and invigorating. Imagine the smoothest, creamiest texture with just the right balance—luscious banana undertones, and a hint of lime to tie it all together. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter!
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Indulge in the exquisite flavors of the Crunchy Milk Chocolate Bars Michelin Star plated dessert. Imagine a decadent milk chocolate mousse bar with a hazelnut-wafer crunchy base, perfectly complemented by a scoop of refreshing banana lime ice cream. To add a tropical twist, this dessert is elegantly finished with a vibrant mango-banana brunoise. The combination of rich chocolate, nutty crunch, and fruity accents creates a harmonious symphony of taste and texture that is sure to captivate your senses. Watch the full video to discover the secrets behind this luxurious treat and elevate your dessert game to a whole new level.
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Prepare to be transported to the sunny fields of Provence with this classic French dish – Ratatouille. A delightful medley of summer vegetables including tomatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, onions, and garlic, simmered to perfection with fragrant herbs like basil and herbes de Provence. The name itself, derived from the verb “to stir up,” hints at the rich flavors and aromas that come together in this iconic Provençal stew. Originally hailing from Nice, ratatouille has become a beloved staple in French cuisine, celebrated for its vibrant colors, hearty textures, and refreshing taste. Whether enjoyed as a side dish, a light lunch, or a main course, this vegetable medley never fails to impress with its simplicity and depth of flavor. Join me in exploring the roots of this traditional dish, as we dive into the history and techniques behind creating the perfect ratatouille inspired from the Pixar Ratatouille movie. Let the aromas of garlic and basil guide you through this culinary journey, and discover why this rustic stew has captured the hearts of food lovers around the world.
Today, I’m going to show you how to make a luxurious blackcurrant ice cream—rich, velvety, and bursting with deep, tangy-sweet berry flavor. This decadent frozen treat is perfect scooped into crisp waffle cones, elegantly quenelled atop a plated dessert, or piled high in your next extravagant sundae creation. With a custard base infused with blackcurrant purée and a hint of citrus, this ice cream strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and vibrant freshness. Follow along, and soon you’ll have a showstopping dessert that’s as versatile as it is delicious.
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Get ready to indulge in a true summer delight with this exquisite Blueberry Plum Pie recipe. The combination of juicy blueberries and sweet plums is a match made in heaven, elevated by the smooth almond cream and buttery crust. This pie is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, creating a symphony of deliciousness with every bite. As you watch the video for this Blueberry Plum Pie recipe, you will be transported to a world of fruity goodness and decadent pastry. The vibrant colors of the blueberries and plums will catch your eye, while the aroma of the almond cream baking in the oven will tantalize your senses. This recipe is a perfect way to make the most of summer fruits and create a dessert that will impress your family and friends. Join me in exploring the art of pie-making with this Blueberry Plum Pie recipe. With just a few simple ingredients like blueberries, plums, almond cream, and buttery crust, you can create a masterpiece that will have everyone asking for more. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a pie that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Blueberry Prune Pie Read More »
When it comes to ice cream, the possibilities are endless. This Roasted Apricot Ice Cream with a Hint of Rosemary is the perfect example of how creative your imagination can go. Velvety and rich, the caramelized sweetness of roasted apricots melds seamlessly with the subtle, pine-like aroma of fresh rosemary. Each spoonful is a balance of bright fruitiness and earthy sophistication, making it an elegant choice for high-end desserts. Drizzle it with honey, pair it with almond tuiles, or layer it into an exceptional sundae with crushed amaretti cookies and a whisper of whipped mascarpone. However you serve it, this ice cream transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary—one luxurious bite at a time.
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Fish and chips is an iconic hot dish that originated in England and has since spread across the globe, with many regional variations popping up along the way. Here in California, you can find it on almost every street corner. But why settle for the mediocre when you can make your own gourmet version at home? In this recipe, I’ll be showcasing two different techniques for frying the fish. The first version will feature a light and crispy tempura batter, giving the fish a delicate and airy texture. Perfect for those who prefer a lighter, less greasy option. But if you’re looking for something a little more indulgent, the second version is for you. We’ll be using a unique eggless breading technique, utilizing crushed tostadas to create a flavorful and crunchy coating for the fish. It’s a twist on the traditional recipe that will leave your taste buds craving more. Of course, no fish and chips would be complete without a side of chips. We’ll be whipping up a batch of perfectly crispy and golden french fries to accompany our fish. And let’s not forget the tartar sauce! I’ll be sharing my secret recipe for a tangy and creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with the fried fish. So if you’ve always wanted to try your hand at making fish and chips at home, you’re in the right place.
Focaccia – A Delightful Journey Through Time and Taste Welcome to a culinary journey steeped in history and flavor with the renowned Focaccia bread. Many believe that this Italian classic has its roots with the Etruscans in North Central Italy or even further back to Ancient Greece. Known for its versatility, focaccia can be enjoyed with a wide array of toppings and is perfect for creating mouthwatering sandwiches. Enhanced with fragrant rosemary, savory thyme, and a touch of fleur de sel or flaky sea salt, focaccia tantalizes the taste buds with every bite. From olives to onions, garlic to fennel, and even a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of sun-dried tomatoes, the possibilities for topping this delectable bread are endless. Whether adorned with marinated vegetables, cheese, grapes, figs, or a spread of pesto or tapenade, each variation offers a unique and delightful experience. To achieve the perfect texture and flavor, the dough for focaccia is typically 75% hydrated, resulting in a light, airy crumb and a crisp, golden crust. Join me as we explore the art of making focaccia, a timeless favorite that continues to captivate taste buds around the world. Get ready to be inspired and tempted by the irresistible allure of this classic Italian bread.
Introducing the sumptuous Mirabelle Plum Pie, where the golden and flavorful mirabelle plum takes center stage in all its glory. Renowned as one of the best table plums, mirabelles truly shine in a variety of culinary creations, including pies, preserves, and liqueurs. In this unique pie configuration, a departure from traditional stone fruit pie recipes, the raw plum halves are elegantly laid on top of cooked mirabelle marmalade and a delectable almond cream base crust. Imagine biting into a slice of this exquisite Mirabelle Plum Pie – the juicy, sweet-tart flavors of the mirabelles harmonizing perfectly with the rich almond cream and buttery crust. This dessert is a true celebration of summer, capturing the essence of the season in every bite. With just a few key ingredients – mirabelle plums, almond cream, and a flaky crust – you can create a masterpiece that will impress your guests and delight your taste buds. Join me in exploring the magic of mirabelle plums and the art of pie-making with this extraordinary recipe. Let’s create a delicious masterpiece together that will elevate your dessert game and leave a lasting impression. Stay tuned for the full recipe video and step-by-step instructions to bring this Mirabelle Plum Pie to life in your own kitchen. Get ready to indulge in a slice of summer heaven!
Sorbet is a light, refreshing frozen dessert made primarily from fruit purée, sugar, and water. Unlike ice cream, it contains no dairy, giving it a vibrant, fruit-forward flavor and a smooth, icy texture. Often served as a palate cleanser between courses or as a dairy-free treat, sorbet comes in a variety of flavors, from classic citrus like lemon and raspberry to more exotic options such as mango or passionfruit. Its simplicity and bright taste make it a popular choice for hot summer days or as a lighter alternative to richer desserts. In this step-by-step recipe, I’ll guide you in crafting the French sorbet of your dreams using an array of vibrant fruits. Whether you opt for professional-grade fruit purées or prepare your own from scratch, sunshine-filled flavor awaits.
The first bite was like stepping into an Italian summer—cool, creamy, and alive with the bright freshness of mint. The gelato melted luxuriously on the tongue, its sweetness perfectly balanced by the herbaceous sharpness of real peppermint leaves. Then came the surprise: delicate paper thin dark chocolate, scattered like shattered glass through the velvety base. Each sliver snapped between the teeth, releasing a bittersweet cocoa depth that played against the gelato’s icy sweetness.
Mint Stracciatella Gelato Read More »
There’s nothing quite like the bold, tangy-sweet burst of cassis (blackcurrant) on a sweltering summer day. Revered as one of the most fragrant and flavorful fruits, its deep, wine-like richness makes it the perfect star for an irresistibly refreshing sorbet. To craft this icy indulgence, you’ll need just three essentials: a perfectly balanced sorbet syrup (trust the pros for that ideal sugar-to-acid ratio), an intensely vibrant cassis purée, and, of course, an ice cream maker to churn it into silky, scoopable perfection.
There’s nothing quite like the rich, velvety smoothness of authentic chocolate gelato. Unlike traditional ice cream, gelato is made with an eggless base, resulting in a denser, silkier texture that melts luxuriously on the tongue. The secret lies in the perfect balance of high-quality cocoa, fresh whole milk, and just the right amount of sugar to enhance the deep chocolate flavor without overwhelming it. In this step-by-step recipe, I will guide you through each stage to ensure your homemade chocolate gelato is nothing short of perfection. Buon appetito!