Ep 4. Baking in Paris

In Christopher Kimball's Milk Street, Season 2 season 3 episode 4, titled "Baking in Paris", viewers are taken on a behind-the-scenes tour of some of Paris' most iconic bakeries. Host Christopher Kimball explores the techniques and ingredients that go into some of the city's most famous pastries, including croissants, macarons, and éclairs.

The episode begins with Kimball visiting one of Paris' oldest and most revered bakeries, Poilâne. Here, he meets with Apollonia Poilâne, the CEO and owner of the bakery, to learn about the unique sourdough bread that has made Poilâne a household name. From the wheat to the wood-fired oven, viewers get an intimate look at the process behind this iconic bread.

Next, Kimball visits Maison Ladurée, a patisserie famous for its delicate macarons. Here, he meets with head pastry chef Claire Heitzler, who shares her secrets for making perfect macarons, including the importance of letting the shells rest before baking and creating a stable meringue. Heitzler also shares her tips for achieving the perfect filling-to-shell ratio, which is key to creating a macaron that is both beautiful and delicious.

The episode then moves on to éclairs, with a visit to Stohrer, one of the oldest patisseries in Paris. Here, Kimball learns from head pastry chef Jeffrey Cagnes about the crucial steps involved in making a perfect éclair, from the light and crisp pâte à choux to the rich and creamy pastry cream. Viewers get a sense of the level of precision and attention to detail required to create these delicate pastries.

Finally, Kimball visits Du Pain et des Idées, a bakery famous for its flaky, buttery croissants. Here, he meets with pastry chef Christophe Vasseur, who shares his recipe for the perfect croissant, which involves a lengthy process of laminating and chilling the dough. Vasseur also shares his tips for achieving the ideal flakiness and butteriness in the croissant, which takes years of practice and skill to master.

Throughout the episode, Kimball provides his own insights and observations on the techniques and ingredients used by these master bakers, as well as his own experiences with French baking during his time in Paris. Viewers are treated to stunning visuals of Paris and its vibrant pastry scene, as well as mouth-watering shots of the delicious confections being made.

In "Baking in Paris", Christopher Kimball's Milk Street offers a fascinating and immersive look at the world of French baking, showcasing the skill, artistry, and dedication that goes into creating some of the world's most famous pastries. Whether you're a home baker or simply a fan of French cuisine, this episode is sure to leave you enchanted and inspired.