I’ve been meaning to write a post for a while and have so much to update you about. Most importantly, my first cookbook, which I’ve been working on for almost 3 years, is finally ready for preorder!
PARIS PICNIC CLUB
In this charmingly illustrated book, you will read about Shaheen and Jennie’s story, and find over 100 flavorful recipes inspired by the diverse cuisines of modern Paris. You’ll delight in eclectic small plates and sharing platters, abundant tartines, creative drinks, indulgent desserts, and more—to savour and share in your favourite picnic spot or at your dinner table. Read more about the book and find pre-order links at parispicnicclub.com.
I got my advance copy on Sunday and here’s a photo of when I first laid my hands on it. After only having looked at manuscripts and layouts on my computer screen and A4 printer papers, to have a hardbound book in my hands felt surreal. It’s finally ready and stocked in warehouses in the States for a release date of 3 April 2018 and May 7 in the UK. My local distributor in India is Penguin India, and I’ll get back to you with more details on where you can buy it. It will be available on Amazon USA and Amazon UK (you can preorder now!) as well as on Amazon.in (add your email address to be notified). I’m also planning on some cool collaborations to mark the launch of the book, so stay tuned on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter.
SUCRÉ ZINE
Sucré is a mini book on French pâtisserie that I have just launched with my designer friend, Manolya. In these pages you will find recipes and techniques, stories and superstitions, maps and facts about some of the glorious pastries of France. Here’s where you can find more information on the zine, take a peek at the pages and order your copy (shipping worldwide!): sucrezine.purplefoodie.com
If you happen to be in London, join me for the launch party of SUCRÉ over cakes and fruity fizz! RSVP here.
TRAINING w/ EURO CHAMPION BAKER
I went away for a few days to France to further my obsession over perfectly laminated viennoiserie. I’ve posted a bunch of photos and a technique on shaping a mini braided loaf on Instagram. Learning from the Master French bakery about his techniques, precision and care for creating superlative croissants, pain au chocolat and lots more was an incredible experience, and I can’t wait to share them with you whenever I’m back teaching.
PARIS!
While I was in Paris and I took the opportunity to eat at a bunch of different places – some new, some old favourites. Here’s a quick round up:
Pastries: Sadaharu Aoki, La Goutte d’Or, Gilles Marchal, Pâtisserie Nanan
Dinner: Bouillon Pigalle, Papillon
Breads: Du Pain et Des Idées (I could sniff on their bread forever), Mamiche
Shopping: La Trésorerie (homeware), Le Bon Marché (food to bring back home), Merci
À BIENTÔT!
That’s about it for now. You’ll hear from me soon! Perhaps with a recipe preview from my new cookbook. Stay tuned.
Lots of love,
Shaheen
