World Baking Day, celebrated annually on the third Sunday in May, is a delightful occasion that unites baking enthusiasts and novices alike in the shared joy of creating baked goods. The day symbolises care and connection through the universal language of food. Whether it’s sweet or savoury, from pretzels to pastries, World Baking Day is about indulging in the act of baking at least once and sharing the fruits of your labour with loved ones.
Baking itself is an ancient tradition, likely the oldest form of cooking, with roots tracing back to Neolithic times. It’s a craft that has been refined over millennia, from simple unleavened flatbreads to the complex pastries we enjoy today. Baking is culturally significant and economically essential, with bread being a staple food in many cultures.
Home bakers around the world bring a unique and personal touch to the art of baking, often transforming traditional recipes with their own creative twists. On World Baking Day, we celebrate not just the professional chefs and pâtissiers, but also these passionate individuals who bake from the comfort of their homes. They are the force who contribute to the rich tapestry of baking culture, infusing their goods with love, care, and a sense of community.
In places like Goa, with its rich culinary heritage, home bakers often draw inspiration from local ingredients and customs, adding a distinct Goan flavour to their creations. They experiment with local spices, fruits, and techniques, producing an array of treats that reflect the diversity and history of the State. Moreover, home bakers play a pivotal role in keeping baking traditions alive, passing down recipes through generations and often serving as the backbone of
local festivities and celebrations. Their kitchens become workshops of innovation, where time-honoured methods meet modern creativity.
World Baking Day is a day for these home bakers to shine, share their stories, and inspire others to explore the fulfilling world of baking. O Heraldo spoke to four home bakers whose desserts and savoury treats are very popular among locals.
