A Baker's Kochi Tale
The Kappa CULTR festival buzzes not only with music but also with the enticing scents of European baked goods, a testament to the passion of Sarah, a Dutch
pastry chef and the visionary behind Zera Noya. Her presence at the festival marks a significant moment, bridging her culinary expertise with the lively atmosphere of Kochi. Sarah's connection to this South Indian city spans eight years, a journey initiated by her marriage to a local. Their paths first crossed years prior while both were employed on a ship – she as a chief baker, he on a brief contract. This chance encounter blossomed into a deep love, leading to their marriage and Sarah's decision to immerse herself in her husband's culture, cuisine, and community in Kochi. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, presented unforeseen challenges, disrupting their lives and income. Forced to pivot, Sarah began baking from her home, initially creating small batches for neighbors. This grassroots endeavor quickly gained traction, fueled by word-of-mouth referrals, friends' orders, and an expanding online presence through Instagram and a website, thus giving birth to her micro-bakery. Amidst this professional growth, the couple also welcomed a child, adding another layer of complexity and joy to their lives during a period of uncertainty. As the demand for her baked goods surged, so did their aspirations for a dedicated bakery space, a dream met with enthusiasm from a community already invested in their story and Sarah’s creations.
Resilience in Every Bite
Just as Sarah's bakery began to flourish with the opening of its physical doors, life dealt a profound blow. Her husband was diagnosed with cancer and sadly passed away within the first year of the bakery's operation. Despite this immense personal tragedy, Sarah found the strength to continue. She explains, 'I love Kochi. I love my bakery. My staff, my family, my community, my neighbours — they’re my family.' This deep emotional grounding is evident in the heartfelt dedication infused into every pastry she crafts. Now, for the first time, Zera Noya is a featured presence at Kappa CULTR, expertly blending Sarah's European baking artistry with the vibrant spirit of the festival. Reflecting on her festival debut, Sarah expresses, 'This is my first time at Kappa CULTR. I’ve never been here before.' The reception has been overwhelmingly positive, with visitors appreciating the inviting ambiance and the appealing range of both savory items and her signature stroopwafels. She views this as just the beginning of her festival culinary journey. As festival-goers immerse themselves in music and gaming, they are also discovering the authentic Dutch flavors meticulously prepared by Sarah, a hallmark of her unwavering commitment to quality.
Festival Flavors Not To Miss
For attendees of Kappa CULTR, Sarah highlights several must-try delights that capture the essence of Zera Noya's offerings. Her top recommendation is the 'Maestro Purple – Festival Special' stroopwafel. Sarah emphasizes, 'I’m baking them fresh,' ensuring peak quality for this iconic Dutch caramel waffle, renowned for its crispy exterior and irresistibly gooey caramel center. This particular offering has quickly become a major draw for festival attendees. Another unique treat is 'Poca Pocha,' humorously translated as 'Goat’s Feet.' This delicate, meringue-like confection is shaped into an oval, generously filled with apricot buttercream, and enrobed in rich chocolate. Sarah proudly states, 'And we only use dark Callebaut chocolate, only Belgian chocolate. We use a lot of European ingredients. We don’t compromise on that,' underscoring her dedication to authentic, high-quality ingredients. Complementing these are refreshing options like the Strawberry Slaw, adorned with fresh strawberries, which appeals to those seeking a sweet yet invigorating choice amidst the festival's energetic atmosphere. Sarah’s consistent adherence to her European training, particularly her insistence on using only Belgian chocolate, distinguishes her creations. While many might adapt recipes for broader appeal, Sarah remains steadfast in her commitment to authentic flavors, presenting European richness with the characteristic warmth of Kerala’s hospitality. These pastries resonate deeply because they are born from personal passion and dedication.
