Getting Sweet With the French
Paris is a city with a never-ending list of things to do. As a study abroad student, it's important to take advantage of what the city has to offer, however it can be overwhelming. Students may end up missing the different cultural aspects of the city-of-lights by getting too caught up in the alcohol and bar culture, and it's difficult to explore a city while nursing a hangover.
The American University of Paris doesn't focus on boring lectures to introduce students to Paris, they offer multiple cultural classes and excursions which allow students to discover the city and French culture! I recently had the opportunity to take a cultural trip focusing on French Pastries.
Image Credit: Darla Centeno
On a gloomy Wednesday afternoon, a group of AUP students and myself headed towards République to a small but cute workshop tucked away from the hustle-and-bustle of the busy district. The building had an open room with large storefront windows, a large dining table resided with wooden benches surrounding it. In the back, workstations were set up with a multitude of baking utensils, equipment, and ingredients for us to play with. As we walked to the back to hang our coats, two French pastry chef's greeted us handing out black aprons. We were divided into two groups. On one side the instructions were given out in English and the other, predominantly in French. However, as our brains failed us in moments of oh-my-god-he's-going-too-fast panic he kindly explained in English (with a hint of disdain). Each group made two desserts. The French side of the workstation made two pastries, all of which I have already forgotten the names to, but one was a small candy-like Madeleine, and the other was a cake with white fondant and frosting made with candied fruit. The other side made dark chocolate cupcakes that were soft and delicious, along with a bourbon-filled raspberry tiramisu. It was phenomenal, and hands down one of my favorite recipes made that day, and I got my fill of alcohol.
The class was informational, hectic, and comical. Our instructor flew through the directions needed and made sure that everyone did what we were supposed to do. At times, he gave us looks of amusement as we continued to mess up the consistency of the meringue, or some other small but crucial detail; the highlight was receiving a "parfait" from him as we did something well.
Image Credit: Darla Centeno
Overall, the experience was fun and I was able to learn about the delicacy of the art of French baking, and why it's one of the best in the world. I also got to meet other AUP students who I wouldn't have met otherwise, and practice my French!
