ORIOL BALAGUER AND LA DUQUESITA TRIUMPH AT THE 7TH BEST ROSCÓN CHAMPIONSHIP IN MADRID
2024/12/17
The prestigious pastry chef Oriol Balaguer , head of the historic Madrid bakery La Duquesita , has been crowned the winner of the 7th Best Roscón de Madrid Championship , held on December 16 at the emblematic Casa de la Panadería. After years of participating as a judge in the competition, Balaguer decided to compete in this edition, a return that was a huge success.
The master pastry chef, considered one of the best in the world, presented a roscón that the jury described as "spongy as cotton and very delicious." According to Balaguer himself, its secret lies in an elaborate fermentation process and the use of high-quality ingredients such as honey, orange blossom, mandarin and lemon.
A roscón made with passion and technique
La Duquesita 's winning roscón is characterised by its unique texture, the result of a careful fermentation process that lasts over 20 hours . "Cold fermentation for two hours, then between 15-18 hours at 4 degrees, and finally two more hours at 26-28 degrees before baking," Balaguer explains. This meticulous work ensures a juicy roscón, with a texture that falls apart into threads, similar to a panettone.
Balaguer emphasizes that passion for the craft is essential: "A craft without passion is incomprehensible," he says, highlighting that every detail in the production process seeks to maximize the aroma and quality of the final product.
A close and prestigious competition
This year's edition was marked by the high quality of the participants. The jury, chaired by master pastry chef Paco Torreblanca , highlighted the difficulty of choosing a winner. The creations of the pastry shops Madreamiga (second place) and Cientotreinta Grados (third) completed the podium.
The jury was made up of experts in gastronomy and pastry, such as Ricardo Vélez (Moulin Chocolat), Alejandro García (UmikoBake), Jordi Butrón , and other experts of national and international renown.
Where to try the best roscón in Madrid
Pastry lovers can enjoy the winning roscón at La Duquesita , located in the heart of Madrid. This iconic establishment, with more than a century of history, is known for keeping the pastry tradition alive while incorporating innovative techniques, such as those that have led Balaguer to victory.
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