The Art of Decoding Flavours in Baking Masterpieces

The Art of Decoding Flavours in Baking Masterpieces

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 29, 2025

Baking is more than following recipes—it’s an intricate dance of flavours that transforms simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces. By understanding and balancing the five core taste elements—sweetness, saltiness, bitterness, sourness, and umami—bakers can craft desserts that enchant the senses and satisfy the palate.

At the heart of exceptional baking lies the careful selection of high-quality, fresh ingredients. The richness of butter, the earthiness of cocoa, and the freshness of fruits all play crucial roles in creating depth and balance. Pairing flavours is equally important. For instance, in a traditional fruitcake, the sweetness of dried fruits is balanced with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, while citrus zest or a touch of rum adds invigorating contrast.

Similarly, desserts like tiramisu rely on a delicate balance between the bitterness of coffee and the sweetness of sugar, with cocoa adding a finishing touch. Lemon soufflé demonstrates how tartness can pair seamlessly with sweet or salty notes, creating a dynamic flavour profile. Even cakes with sea salt provide a savoury twist while enhancing sweetness.

Temperature and technique also influence flavour. The Maillard reaction during high-temperature baking imparts rich, toasty notes to cookies and bread, while low-temperature baking preserves delicate flavours in cakes and meringues. Cooling desserts allows the flavours to meld, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Modern bakers are exploring new frontiers in flavour. Botanical ingredients like lavender and rose lend floral notes, while savoury elements such as rosemary and goat cheese bring depth to breads and pastries. Uncommon fruits like yuzu and passion fruit offer vibrant, intense flavours, and cultural influences are inspiring unique combinations for global palates.

Health-conscious trends have also shaped the baking world. Natural sweeteners like honey and coconut sugar, gluten-free flours like almond and oat, and plant-based dairy alternatives are enabling bakers to create desserts that meet dietary needs without compromising taste.

In conclusion, the art of decoding flavours in baking is a journey of creativity and precision. By understanding the interplay of elements, embracing innovative trends, and pushing boundaries, bakers can create masterpieces that delight and inspire.

This article is contributed by Chef Pratyay Keny, Executive Pastry Chef, Academy of Pastry and Culinary Arts, Bengaluru.


Ghewar Chaat: A Festive Twist to a Classic Delight by Chef Sarfaraz Ahmed

Ghewar Chaat: A Festive Twist to a Classic Delight by Chef Sarfaraz Ahmed

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 12, 2025

Ingredients

For Ghewar (6g per Ghewar)

  • Refined Flour – 700g
  • Whole Wheat Flour – 100g
  • Gram Flour – 100g
  • Ghee – 150g
  • Water – 1.2L
  • Ice – 600g (as per consistency)

For Ghewar Chaat (85g per portion with Ghewar)

  • Chickpea – 100g
  • Hass Avocado – 25g
  • Boiled Potato – 50g
  • Moong Sprout – 20g
  • Tamarind Pulp – 30g
  • Ajwain Chutney – 40g
  • Mint Chutney – 15g
  • Sweet Curd – 70g
  • Fresh Strawberries – 30g
  • Pomelo – 15g
  • Beetroot Powder – To sprinkle
  • Mint Powder – To sprinkle
  • Yellow Chilly Powder – 5g
  • Black Salt – To taste
  • Chaat Masala Powder – 5g
  • Salt – To taste

Method of Preparation

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For Ghewar:

  1. Measure and mix refined flour, whole wheat flour, and gram flour in a bowl.
  2. In a separate bowl, add ghee and start mixing with ice little by little to emulsify.
  3. Gradually add the flour mixture while stirring continuously until a smooth consistency is achieved.
  4. Heat ghee in a pan along with the Ghewar mould.
  5. Once the ghee reaches the desired temperature, slowly pour in the batter until the Ghewar forms.
  6. Carefully remove the Ghewar from the mould and allow it to cool completely before using.

For Chaat:

  1. Soak chickpeas overnight, boil them the next day, and let them cool.
  2. Boil potatoes, cool them down, and cut them into small cubes.
  3. In a bowl, mix the boiled chickpeas, diced potatoes, and moong sprouts.
  4. Add thick tamarind pulp (strained) and ajwain chutney for flavor.
  5. Season with chaat masala, black salt, and regular salt to taste.
  6. Dice the Hass avocado and gently fold it into the mixture.
  7. In a serving bowl, layer the chaat mixture and top it with sweet curd and mint chutney.
  8. Garnish with fresh diced Mahabaleshwar strawberries and pomelo.
  9. Sprinkle beetroot powder and mint powder for added vibrancy and flavor.
  10. Finally, place the crunchy Ghewar on top of the chaat, creating a visually stunning and delicious dish.

Celebrate Holi with a Unique Twist on a Traditional Favorite!

Chef Sarfaraz Ahmed’s Ghewar Chaat is an innovative fusion dish that brings together traditional Indian flavors with a contemporary twist. Whether you're hosting a Holi party or simply looking to try something new, this savory take on Ghewar is sure to be a showstopper. Enjoy the festival of colors with a plate full of flavors!


Chinese Wok Expands in Bengaluru with 32nd Outlet at Manyata Business Park

Chinese Wok Expands in Bengaluru with 32nd Outlet at Manyata Business Park

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 12, 2025

Chinese Wok, India’s largest Chinese QSR chain, has expanded its presence in Bengaluru with the launch of its 32nd outlet at Embassy Manyata Business Park. This move is part of the brand’s larger goal to establish 500 outlets across India by 2027, reinforcing its leadership in the Desi-Chinese dining segment.

A Modern Dining Experience with Augmented Reality

The new outlet features a vibrant and modern ambiance with stylish interiors, warm lighting, and trendy wall décor, creating an inviting space for diners. Taking customer engagement to the next level, Chinese Wok has introduced an Augmented Reality (AR) experience, where guests can scan a QR code on tables to see a virtual chef come to life, making their visit interactive and fun.

Exclusive Launch Offers for Food Lovers

To celebrate this expansion, Chinese Wok is offering exciting in-store deals, including:

  • Superrr Bowl Offer – A Manchurian bowl with fried rice or noodles + Pepsi
  • Wok WednesdaysBuy 1, Get 1 Free on select menu items.

Innovating the Desi-Chinese QSR Landscape

Speaking on the launch, Aayush Madhusudan Agrawal, Founder & Director of Lenexis Foodworks, said:
"This expansion marks an exciting milestone for Chinese Wok as we continue to strengthen our presence across India. We are committed to delivering an unparalleled Indo-Chinese dining experience by combining great taste, affordability, and innovation. The introduction of AR technology further enhances customer engagement, making dining at Chinese Wok both enjoyable and interactive."

About Lenexis Foodworks

Lenexis Foodworks is a leading QSR company in India, operating a portfolio of popular brands, including Chinese Wok, The Momo Co., and Big Bowl. Since its founding in 2015, Chinese Wok has grown to become India’s largest Chinese QSR brand, offering high-quality, hygienic, and affordable Desi-Chinese cuisine. With a footprint of 220+ outlets across 35+ cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Pune, Chennai, Jaipur, and Hyderabad, the brand is on a mission to redefine the culinary landscape.

For more details, visit www.thechinesewok.com.


Muro Café Now Welcomes Pets for Weekend Breakfast in Bangalore

Muro Café Now Welcomes Pets for Weekend Breakfast in Bangalore

By Nishang Narayan

Published on March 12, 2025

Looking for a spot where you can enjoy breakfast with your furry friend? Muro Café on Museum Road, Bangalore, is now pet-friendly every weekend! From 9 AM to 12 PM on Saturdays and Sundays, the café welcomes pet parents to relax and enjoy a delicious Asian-inspired breakfast in a warm and inviting setting.

A Menu Worth Waking Up For

Muro Café brings an exciting twist to breakfast with Asian-inspired favorites, including:

  • Crab Omelette – A flavorful take on the classic.
  • Khao Soi – A comforting, aromatic bowl of goodness.
  • Egg & Meat Sandwiches – Packed with rich flavors.
  • Hong Kong French Toast – A crispy, indulgent delight.
  • Basque Cheesecake – For those with a sweet tooth.
  • Fresh Fruit Danish – Light, fresh, and delicious.

Perfect Coffee to Start Your Day

Pair your meal with specialty coffee blends and micro-lots sourced from three of Chikmagalur’s top estates—a treat for coffee lovers who appreciate a strong, aromatic brew.

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A Cozy & Pet-Friendly Space

Muro Café’s outdoor seating area is now open for pets, making it an ideal place to unwind with your four-legged companion. This initiative reflects the café’s commitment to creating an inclusive, community-driven dining experience where everyone—pets included—feels welcome.

Plan Your Weekend Visit

  • Where: Muro Café, Museum Road, Bangalore
  • When: Saturdays & Sundays
  • Time: 9 AM – 12 PM

Start your weekend right with great food, fresh coffee, and your favorite company!

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