Loza Pastry, Lorton, VA
My story started over 20 years ago when every two weeks (like clockwork! a ritual unfolded in our home. My dear uncle would visit after a long day of work, bearing an entire tray of scrumptious Basbousa!
Its warm moist syrup-soaked texture and delightful sweetness defined the togetherness of our family. All the happihess we shared was weaved into the fragrant & delicate texture of Basbousa. And every bite etched unforgettable memories of the love & warmth we shared. And this you might say is THE characteristic of Basbousa.
As I left home and began a new chapter in the United States, I desperately yearned for the lingering satisfying taste of Basbousa that shaped my fondest recollections.
But despite my efforts, I couldn't find what I was looking for. My luck was failing me in every attempt to find the joy I used to cherish in my favorite dessert. There was simply no Basbousa in any of the Basbousas I tried!
Instead of the fulfilling contentment of Basbousa's pleasant af-tertaste, I was left with the excessive taste of sugar. Nothing but sugar! Whatever notes of rose water, or orange blossom that might've been used were buried under the dense overpowering sweetness of sugar - which appeared to be desperately trying to hide the dry stale texture underneath.
So faced with defeat, I was left with no other choice other than to make my own. I decided to dedicate myself wholeheartedly to perfecting a recipe that recreated not just the mouthwatering flavor of the Basbousa I know, but the conviviality that came with it.
On my quest, I discovered and created not only an abundance of recipes and flavors but a side of myself I never knew existed A passion & craft ignited by the pursuit of my fondest memo-ries. So to my surprise, my journey of Basbousa-discovery became one of self-discovery as well!
A long endeavor as it was I am now thrilled to be able to share with you the sweet and savory fruits of my exciting journey!
A journey of uncovering a unique blend of flavors and of recovering the taste of home and warm nostalgia. And most importantly a journey of rediscovering myself and my love and devoted passion for baking. A part of me I wouldn't have even known if I hadn't followed the traces of the luscious memories of my uncle's Basbousa.
Loza has become the form and space in which I express my love for baking, my love for home, and my undying love for Basbousa! It is my way of cherishing my most precious memo-ries, by reliving and pouring their essence into every single product I bake.
