Chef Anjana: A Journey of Flavor, Tradition, and Innovation in the World of Baking

Chef Anjana is a passionate baker whose journey has been defined by a deep love for both tradition and innovation. With over six years of experience, she has mastered the delicate art of balancing time-honored baking methods with modern techniques to create unique and memorable desserts. From perfecting the egg-free Korean cream cheese buns to incorporating regional Indian flavors into her award-winning cakes, Anjana’s approach to baking celebrates the beauty of cultural heritage while embracing the possibilities of contemporary pastry arts.

When did you started your journey as an baker?

I’ve been passionate about baking for as long as I can remember! I started experimenting with baking when I was in my early 30’s, and I officially started my journey as a baker about 6 and half years ago. It’s been a wonderful journey so far, and I feel grateful to be able to do what I love every day!

With the rise of modern techniques like sous-vide baking or molecular gastronomy in the pastry world, how do you incorporate innovation into your baking while preserving the traditional techniques that make a dish truly timeless?

As a baker, I believe it’s essential to strike a balance between innovation and tradition. While I appreciate the creativity and precision that modern techniques like sous-vide baking and molecular gastronomy offer, I also believe that traditional techniques are the foundation of truly timeless baking.

To incorporate innovation into my baking, I experiment with new ingredients, techniques, and tools, but I always do so with a deep respect for the traditional methods that have been passed down through generations. I might use modern techniques to enhance the texture or flavor of a traditional dessert, but I always make sure that the essence of the original recipe remains intact.

For example, I might use sous-vide baking to create a perfectly cooked croquembouche, but I would still use traditional French techniques to create the choux pastry and caramel. By combining the best of both worlds, I can create innovative desserts that are both modern and timeless.

What baking Means to you?

Baking is my passion! To me, baking is not just about following a recipe and producing a delicious treat. It’s about creating something that brings joy and happiness to others. It’s about sharing love, care, and warmth through the simple act of baking.

Baking is also a form of self-expression and creativity for me. I love experimenting with new ingredients, techniques, and flavors to create unique and delicious desserts. It’s a way for me to relax, unwind, and tap into my creative side.

But most importantly, baking is about connection and community. Whether it’s baking for a special occasion, a holiday, or just because, I love knowing that my baked goods are bringing people together and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Korean cream cheese buns are a fusion of traditional bread-making techniques and Western cream cheese. How do you preserve the authenticity of the bread while innovating with fillings, toppings, or textures to make your version stand out?

Our version of this dish is eggfree. While we cracked the perfect eggfree recipe and the cream cheese filling one can never miss the egg version. I was mindful in preserving the richness of the authentic Korean Cream Cheese buns with my own version

As a winner of the Indian Cake Award, how do you balance the rich traditions of Indian flavors with modern cake techniques, and what role does the integration of regional ingredients play in elevating the uniqueness and authenticity of your cakes?

When we create any new flavour we ensure that it is compatible with modern techniques. Modern cake decorating techniques are way critical that may not go with Indian flavours. Indian fusion flavors like Rasmalai, Rosogolla Tiramisu, and Kesar Pistachio are indeed unique and delicious, and they deserve to be showcased in a way that highlights their natural beauty.

Sometimes, over-the-top decorating can overpower the delicate flavors and textures of these desserts. By keeping the presentation simple and elegant, you allow the true stars of the show – the flavors – to shine through.

Your Inspirational quote?

What’s gone is past, what’s coming in unknown, what we are getting is a gift. The present is a gift, live and conquer the moment!

Author: News Shot 24