Chef Philip Khoury is leading a remarkable shift in the culinary world, particularly in baking, by emphasizing plant-based ingredients without sacrificing flavor or tradition. His new cookbook, titled 'Beyond Baking: Plant-based Baking for a New Era,' embodies his dedication to innovative techniques and the use of readily available pantry staples. This work is a testament to his belief that delicious baked goods can be created without relying on eggs or dairy, offering an exciting and inclusive future for confectionery enthusiasts worldwide. Khoury's creations range from a luscious peach and hazelnut cake to delicate almond croissants, all crafted with a deep understanding of flavor profiles and textures, proving that plant-based baking can truly transcend expectations.
Khoury's journey into the world of patisserie was sparked by a transformative experience in Paris, the global epicenter of fine pastries. A particular moment, savoring a '2000 Feuilles' from Pierre Herme in front of a Parisian cathedral, ignited his passion and set him on a path to becoming a distinguished chef. This deep-seated inspiration propelled him to explore and innovate, leading to significant accolades such as the La Liste Pastry Award for Innovation in Paris in 2023. His culinary philosophy centers on challenging conventional baking norms, as evidenced by his plant-based recipes that consciously move away from highly processed alternatives. Instead, he focuses on extracting maximum flavor from natural components, particularly nuts, which serve as versatile and rich foundations for many of his dishes.
In his quest to redefine baking, Khoury meticulously explores the potential of plant-based ingredients. His recipes frequently utilize nut butters as a substitute for traditional butter, imparting a unique richness and depth of flavor. He also incorporates whole nuts, grinding them directly into the flour to release their inherent oils, which naturally enrich the dough. This approach not only creates distinct textures but also develops complex flavor profiles in every bite. His cookies, for instance, are celebrated for their crispy edges and tender, chewy centers, a result of precise ingredient balance and thoughtful preparation. Khoury's innovative methods aim to broaden the horizons of baking, offering a diverse array of options for those seeking delightful and conscientiously crafted treats.
Khoury also extends his innovative philosophy to his artisanal chocolate enterprise, 'Khourys,' where he crafts distinctive chocolate bars inspired by various global destinations. Each bar is conceived as a 'love letter' to a specific locale, featuring unique flavor combinations that evoke the essence of that place. For example, the Beirut Chocolate Bar pays homage to Lebanon with a blend of orange blossom caramel, crisp cashew baklava, and creamy cashew notes. The London Bar infuses Earl Grey into its caramel, complemented by a biscuit crunch with hints of bergamot and sea salt. The New York Bar captures classic American apple pie flavors with cinnamon-spiced apple compote and toasted almond crunch. These creations reflect Khoury's broader culinary vision: to infuse traditional formulations and techniques with fresh life using pure ingredients, ultimately delivering exceptional taste experiences that resonate with everyone.
Khoury's peanut butter chocolate chip cookie recipe, a personal favorite of culinary figures like Nigella Lawson, epitomizes his innovative yet comforting approach to baking. Drawing inspiration from the beloved chunky, indulgent style of New York's famous Levain Bakery, these cookies are designed for effortless preparation using pre-made nut butter, making them accessible to home bakers. They feature luscious melted chocolate ribbons interwoven within a tender, nutty base, best enjoyed warm for an optimal sensory experience. These delectable treats not only store well in an airtight container for up to a week but can also be easily revived to their gooey, molten state with a brief moment in the microwave, offering a delightful indulgence any time.