How does storytelling form your taste decisions?
Each Foolish Goose cookie tells a singular story, and honestly, that emotional connection is at all times our favourite half. Every taste is impressed by somebody near us — buddies, household or clients — primarily based on recollections they cherish and love. Typically, it’s linked to a nostalgic snack from childhood or maybe a canteen basic they adored throughout their college years. Different occasions, it’s related to one thing surprising, like a favourite artist, a film or perhaps a beloved journey vacation spot. Because of this, each taste feels deeply private to them, and equally, the quirky and considerate naming follows that very same spirit.
Do you ever draw on regional or UAE-specific flavors when creating new cookies?
Not within the conventional sense, since our inspiration doesn’t depend on regional clichés however on actual individuals and favourite flavors. As a substitute, we create cookies which are primarily based on private recollections, heartfelt tales and really particular cravings shared with us over time. As an illustration, the NoNo Darling cookie is called after my spouse Noémie as a result of NoNo is her affectionate and playful nickname. She was our first style tester and to this present day she nonetheless decides when every cookie’s taste is completely balanced. Nonetheless, we don’t intentionally design UAE-themed cookies, however native affect naturally comes by way of the individuals we meet day-after-day. Their tales form our concepts. Because of this, our cookies Butter Me Up and Bonne Bouche have been named by an Emirati good friend.
What’s the one ingredient you imagine makes the most important distinction in a cookie?
It isn’t simply concerning the ingredient, as a result of the actual distinction lies totally within the technique and the way you utilize it. From browning the butter accurately to checking its temperature earlier than mixing with sugar, each element makes a noticeable distinction. Then comes the timing of including eggs and guaranteeing the dough is rarely over combined to protect the ultimate texture. Even how lengthy you relaxation the dough performs an enormous function in growing deep taste and reaching the appropriate consistency. Each single step influences the end result which is why we spent months adjusting ratios, baking occasions and cooling strategies. In fact, the components matter too. However, finally, the actual magic lives within the course of and the way it’s executed. That’s precisely the place the flavour develops and the place all the feel, richness and depth come alive in each cookie.
French butter appears to be a signature ingredient. Why did you select it?
French butter accommodates much less water and has the next fats content material, which leads to larger richness and improved texture. When it browns, the milk solids caramelize, creating a pleasant nutty, toasty taste that defines our cookies’ signature depth and persona. Curiously, we spent a number of days taste-testing numerous uncooked butters, sampling nothing however spoonfuls, to seek out the proper one.
Is there a dream cookie you haven’t cracked but?
We’re engaged on a bourbon banana cookie with darkish chocolate and walnuts. Though it’s nonetheless a piece in progress, we don’t imagine in “not possible cookies” at Foolish Goose. As a substitute, we concentrate on cookies that take a little bit extra time to good and refine. As a part of our ongoing experimentation with new flavors and ideas, we’re excited to launch our taste of the month beginning this June. Every month, we’ll introduce a limited-edition, one-time cookie designed for the curious and cookie-obsessed particular person. I gained’t reveal an excessive amount of, however right here’s a clue: assume black and white nostalgia!
