Back-to-school is always an emotional time, combining the excitement of new academic challenges with the melancholy of the end of vacation. At Maison Perrotte, we know that this time of year also marks a return to small daily habits, of which snacks are an essential part.
It's a precious moment to get together, exchange ideas and treat yourself after a busy day.
To evoke this beloved ritual, we asked Maison Perrotte's Chef to share his memories and taste preferences.
A Memory Snack: Farmhouse Delights
The Chef fondly recalls his childhood memories of the afternoon snack, a highlight of his day. "A snack is always a precious moment," he explains.
"I particularly remember what my great-aunt Jeanne used to cook for me. With my great-uncle Paul, they owned a farm in Yvetot Bocage, where we often went with my grandparents. The snack was simple, but delicious: a thick slice of well-baked three-pound bread, generously spread with farm butter, accompanied by hot chocolate."
This rustic snack not only awakened her taste for well-baked bread, but also gave way to other taste experiences over the years.
As a teenager, he recalls trying out the more adventurous snack combinations thanks to a friend: "I had a friend as a teenager who was much more adventurous than me. At four o'clock, he would treat himself to a sandwich made with baguette, laughing cow and squares of chocolate. I have to admit that this mixture wasn't really to my taste, but I bravely gave it a try."
A Taste of Gourmandise: The Chef's Preferences
Even today, Maison Perrotte's Chef retains an undiminished passion for snacks. "I'm a great gourmand, I admit it," he shares enthusiastically.
"My daily routine often consists of sweet products, such as fresh fruit or homemade jams. However, I'm also a fan of savory snacks. A little rillaud or a few slices of dry sausage are delicacies I particularly enjoy."
Among his most memorable taste memories, the Chef recalls a snack at the Plaza Athénée prepared by pastry chef Angelo Musa.
"It was a real treat," he recalls.
"I now dream of tasting the creations of pastry chef Eric Verbauwhede at Maison PIC."
In conclusion, for Chef Stéphan Perrotte, the afternoon snack remains a moment charged with meaning and gourmandise, which he associates with childhood memories and contemporary pleasures. Whether it's classic bread-butter-chocolate or refined pastry creations, the afternoon snack is a special time to indulge and share moments of happiness.
Happy back-to-school and happy snacks to all!