Bakers of Atlantia: display your talents at KASF to complete for the Notable title of Royal Baker!
To enter the competition, please notify the current Royal Baker,
Lady Elizabeth de Spaldyng
(skspalding AT hotmail.com or on Facebook Messenger)
by Feb. 29 of your intent to participate.
Competitors should submit two pies or tarts to the competition – one sweet and one savory – any crust, any spices, any filling. Both pies/tarts should be submitted with period documentation and commentary on the baking process and the choices each baker made re: recipe, spices, modern adaptations, anything unusual, etc.
Bakers should display their submissions in a pleasing manner.
Questions may be directed to Lady Elizabeth. The Royal Baker should prepared to make baked goods for various events for TRMs and the populace, based on requests and according to their own schedule and host this contest in 2025. This role is a wonderful way to share your hearth gifts with the Kingdom.
So – ready, set, BAKE!
FAQ
Do I need to be an experienced baker in the SCA or otherwise to enter?
No, if it’s your first time in the kitchen, go for it! However, if you receive assistance either with research, technique, and other aspects then you must be transparent and note it in your documentation. Plagiarism and a lack of transparency will get you disqualified, and no one wants to see that.
Must I build a brick oven and bake over a fire because that’s how they did it back then?
No, however, the more period methods you use to produce your bake, the better your score is likely to be. If you are competing and have trouble standing, or perhaps cannot chop things that need chopping and so on, please use modern tools. Explain your reasoning, no uncomfortable questions will be asked, and you will not be penalized for doing so. This is a competition for everyone, not just the able-bodied. (What 15c baker wouldn’t have died for a Kitchen Aide mixer, am I right?)
Must I make everything from scratch?
That is up to you, however, the more that you produce on your own, the more points you’re likely to score. (Laurels & Pelicans like that sort of thing!)
Must I list all of the ingredients used and how much?
Absolutely. Yes. If you bring an entry that does not list everything that you have used in it including quantities, you will not be able to enter. There will be no compromises on this point.
How much outside help can I receive?
This isn’t a group project so you should be doing most of the heavy lifting yourself. However, if you need help to get the job done, ask for it. If you do so, mention it in your documentation. Everyone should receive credit for their work, even if they aren’t the competitor.
Where should I focus the bulk of my energy?
You should spend it in the kitchen. Test your recipes by feeding the people around you. Treat your family and friends to a taste of what you plan to enter! Get their feedback from them about what works and what doesn’t! You get usable information and they get food!
Do I have to stand by my entry all day?
The Royal Baker competition will not last all day – so, no. However, you should be prepared to spend time at KASF while the contest is in session talking to the populace about what you made and how you made it. The role of the Royal Baker is that of an educator and cheerleader. So if you want the glory, be prepared to start the job at KASF. Be ready to answer questions and not just when the judges show up. You never know who you can inspire to get in the kitchen and try. The impact you can make with a simple conversation is incredible.