Great Brussels Charity Bake Off 2014

Counting down to the Bake Off competition, amateur bakers across the capital are testing final recipes in the hope of wowing judges on October 27. Each office team was placed in one of four categories at the British Chamber of Commerce’s launch event on September 22: cakes, European goodies, Belgian specialities and pies. With more than 35 teams entered and only one round, the culinary clash is expected to sizzle.

An expert panel of chefs and pastry cooks have the heartburning task of tasting each entry and awarding the prizes, generously donated by sponsors. The judging criteria is taste, presentation, technique and originality. Everyone is invited to join the feasting at Le Châtelain Hotel in central Brussels by registering here.

So the heat is on for the Bulletin Bakers, preparing to battle nine other competitors in the pie category. And it has been a sluggish start in the race to find, if not exactly a winning entry, a recipe that is both enticing and edible. Artisan and homemade being traditionally the signature style of the BB team. It may be a high-risk strategy, but we hope to counter our opponents’ sugar rush offerings by serving savoury. Another concession from the organisers in the pie class is the option of going down the diminutive route.

First attempts at a batch of mini waterzooi-inspired chicken pies hit the spot for Sunday lunch but we’re not convinced they’ll sway judges when served cold. Next up was a regular-sized flamiche, a leek and cream tart that is a speciality of northern France and Belgium. Our version added blue cheese and toasted pine nuts. It was tasty with a glass or two of Chablis on the side, but slicing into it was rather a soggy, soupy mess. Back to petite pie form and latest trials have been exploring the English classic: pork and egg. First trials delivered on flavour, but technique and presentation still wobbly. Practice sessions are being planned and guess what’s on the menu this weekend kids!

The competition is organised by the British Chamber of Commerce’s young networking wing, Brussels New Generation. It is raising money for YouthStart, a charity under the patronage of Queen Mathilde of Belgium.