I have been fortunate enough to see much of the world but no country has stood out to me like Italy.
A mix of old and new, tradition and novelty, Italy contradicts itself in the most harmonious way. Sitting in the plaza, you see young children chasing pigeons as their gelato melts in the midday sun. Lovers walk hand in hand and nuns chuckle to themselves as their rosary beads sway from side to side, clicking in unison. The roar of a sports car is interrupted by the chiming of the church bells, calling us all to siesta.
There is something melodramatic and yet, so amazingly simple about Italian culture and cucina.
Here I was introduced to the silkier, creamier relative of Ice Cream: the Gelato. Visiting three Gelaterias in a day became a blissful ritual and indulgence for me. Every taste, smell and sound is distinct and has its place while still in full accord with the essence of Italy. It is this paradox that I want to achieve with my own baking. For each ingredient to retain its integrity while together, creating something new.
On my return, I was eager to recreate the artisanal experiences I encountered through my own baking and thus began my creative journey and exploration of different flavors while creating my own signature style. As a Boulanger, I use the freshest ingredients to ensure the individual flavors take the center stage, while putting an innovative and artistic twist to create a sensational experience for the eyes and taste buds.
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QUICK 5 with Gypsy Kresha
1) Favorite Ingredients - Vanille Bean & Salt
2) Favorite Baking Utensil - Balloon Whisk
3) Favorite Celebrity Chef - Anthony Bourdain (RIP) followed by Nigella
4) Favorite Dessert - First and foremost my Granny Rita’s Biscuit Pudding that cannot be found anywhere in the world. Followed by a classic Tiramisu.
5) Favorite Song to listen to while baking - Entire Rumors Album or Gypsy by Fleetwood Mac