Tag: Desserts

But why do I love these shows so much?

Do I really need a reason to love competitive baking shows? No. But there are definitely clear indicators as to why I find so much enjoyment from these shows.

1. I’m a sucker for reality television.

Even growing up, I loved shows like Unsolved Mysteries, American Idol, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Cash Cab, Deadliest Catch, So You Think You Can Dance, What Not to Wear, Say Yes to the Dress, Diners, Drive Ins and Dives, Pawn Stars, the list goes on (and on). Even if the show was predicable, worthless, or otherwise a waste of time, I still loved following the stories, witnessing (and sometimes experiencing) the cast’s emotions, and being able to talk about it with friends who enjoyed similar programming as much as I did.

2. Food is LIFE.

I. Love. Food. Textures, flavors, all of it. I am in no way a professional (or even good) cook, but I appreciate the creativity and unique flavor combinations culinarians incorporate when crafting clever and delicious dishes. Not only that, but I also adore humble, stick-to-your-insides, homegrown grub. With really good food, you’re senses are not only flooded with the physical attributes of the food, but you can taste the passion, patience, and love put into it.

There’s a true science behind great food, and the people behind those delectable dishes are magicians, which is why I scour review sites, ask locals for dining recommendations, and try to avoid chain restaurants at all costs when I travel (although seeing how chain restaurants differ depending on it’s geographic location is interesting). I visited Northampton, MA to see a show at the Calvin Theatre and dined at a highly reviewed and recommended Italian restaurant, Mulino’s. I was too busy enjoying the absolutely incredible food that I didn’t even take photos!

3. Food is a gateway to learning about people and cultures.

I look for dishes unique to a particular area, region, or country in an attempt to experience what the natives get to enjoy regularly. In New York City, you can’t skip pizza or a hot dog from street carts, and you are required to go to Anchor Bar or Duff’s Famous Wings in Buffalo for (the best) buffalo chicken wings. In Australia, I tried a kangaroo burger. In Italy, it was all about the pizza and pasta (FYI – spaghetti and meatballs are not a thing in Italy, and neither is alfredo sauce). In Ireland, I made sure to indulge in traditional Irish scones, cocktails, and Guinness (of course, even though I’m not a beer drinker). With each new dish and flavor, I learn more about the area’s culture and the people residing there. Just sitting in a coffee shop listening to the locals is intriguing and stimulating in itself.

I learn so much about the competitors and their cultures while watching baking shows, even though I’m not physically in attendance (but how awesome would that be?!). For example, The Great British Baking Show and Zumbo’s Just Desserts take place in Great Britain and Australia, respectively. Often, competitors pull inspiration and flavors for their dishes from where they’re from (like India, from the latest collection I’ve been watching) or where they’ve been. Competitors use ingredients I’ve never heard of and use terminology that is unfamiliar to me, and I love it.

4. I have a GIGANTIC sweet tooth.

It doesn’t matter whether it’s ice cream, a fruity cocktail, cake, cookies, fruit, or any other delectably sweet treat, you will never need to ask me twice if I’m interested. In my opinion, the sweeter the better! Bonus points if it has dark chocolate, which is not only my favorite chocolate, but arguably the best one for you, right? I swear I read that somewhere 😉

Naturally, my aptitude for sweets makes my mouth water that much more while watching these baking shows. The sad parts though: There’s no deliciously sweet aroma floating through the air, and there is no taste testing (this is the part when I get envious of the judges!). Where’s Willy Wonka’s WonkaVision when you need it?

5. I love these shows because they make me happy.

Ultimately, I watch competitive baking shows because they make me happy, and there is no need for any other reason. I allow myself to completely immerse into the show and into the places of the competitors. Their dreams, passion, creativity, and determination are palpable; it’s fascinating, terrifying, and inspiring all at the same time. I share in the elation of those who successfully complete a challenge or win the competition, and in the sorrow and defeat of others as they must walk away. I look forward to what I will learn during each episode, whether it’s vocabulary, a technical skill, or a new person to follow on Instagram (if you haven’t already, give my blog a follow on Instagram). Mostly though, I delight in seeing the competitors’ creations come to fruition, following their process, cheering them on, and watching them grow.

I’m saddened when a season or show comes to an end. Thankfully though, there are many more seasons and episodes of competitive baking shows to help satisfy my sweet tooth and my appetite. Bon Appétit!