French Chef Crowned Best Baguette Baker In All Of Paris

Xavier Netry, a seasoned baker with 25 years of experience, emerged victorious among 172 competitors to claim the title of the "Grand Prix de la baguette" in Paris. The competition, which evaluates baguettes based on taste, appearance, texture, airiness, and baking quality, saw Netry's bakery, Utopie, in the 11th district of Paris, triumph. Judges for the event included officials, industry representatives, journalists, and randomly selected Parisians. Netry's winning secret, as revealed on his Instagram page, lies in his meticulous fermentation process infused with love and passion for baking.




The significance of the baguette extends beyond mere culinary delight; it symbolizes French culture and tradition, recognized by its recent addition to the United Nations' list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Netry's victory earned Utopie a cash prize of 4,000 euros and the prestigious honor of supplying baguettes to the Élysée Palace for a year.

Netry's baguettes, crafted with only four ingredients – flour, water, salt, and leaven or yeast – stand as a testament to artisanal expertise. The term "baguette," translating to "little rod" or "wand" in French, underscores the bread's distinctive elongated shape. Its preparation demands specialized knowledge and techniques, with variations influenced by factors such as temperature and humidity. Despite the demanding nature of his craft, Netry's dedication shines through, exemplified by his admission of sleepless nights following his triumph.

Source: Fox News
Photo: Fox News
Video: Mass Live