The Great British Baking Show: Changing Tastes

The Great British Baking Show has long been a cherished staple of British television, celebrated for its wholesome charm, quintessential English recipes, and the heartwarming journeys of its contestants. However, the show’s recent seasons have drawn criticism for a perceived disconnect between its judges, Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith, and the ever-evolving tastes of its audience. This gap was highlighted most recently when Hollywood admitted to being unfamiliar with gochujang, a fermented Korean chilli paste that has become a kitchen staple for many food enthusiasts worldwide.

Gochujang, widely recognised as a “trendy” ingredient for nearly a decade, has appeared in countless recipes in both the UK and the US, from marinades to desserts. In fact, by 2015, publications such as Bon Appétit were touting it as the hottest condiment of the year. Yet Hollywood’s reaction to the ingredient, alongside his apparent mispronunciations of other global culinary terms, sparked confusion among fans. “How has a professional chef never heard of gochujang?” one viewer tweeted. This sentiment reflects a broader concern that the judges, once hailed as authorities on baking, are struggling to keep pace with the increasingly diverse and adventurous palates of modern bakers and viewers alike.

The Great British Baking Show and its charm has always rested in its ability to bridge tradition with creativity. Early seasons focused on familiar recipes, such as Victoria sponges and Bakewell tarts, appealing to a nostalgic sense of Britishness. However, as the contestants have become more innovative and the challenges more international, the judges’ seemingly rigid preferences often feel out of step. Hollywood’s aversion to certain ingredients, such as matcha or peanut butter, and Leith’s apparent preference for boozy desserts signal a hesitance to embrace new flavours wholeheartedly.

This divide between judges and bakers is perhaps most evident in the show’s “themed” weeks, such as Vegan Week or Free-From Week, which aim to celebrate alternative ingredients and cooking styles. While contestants enthusiastically embrace the challenges, offering inventive creations, the judges often appear bemused or even dismissive. Hollywood once described a vegan sausage roll as “buttery,” implying that a butter-free dish should mimic its traditional counterpart rather than stand on its own merit.

Critics argue that the solution lies in evolving the judging panel. Adding a third judge, particularly someone with experience in contemporary food trends, could inject fresh energy into the show. Many suggest bringing back former contestants, such as past winners Nadiya Hussain or Giuseppe Dell’Anno, who have not only navigated the tent themselves but also embraced the modern culinary landscape. These voices could provide a balance, recognising both traditional skills and creative risks.

According to The Guardian, modern baking trends in the UK are increasingly influenced by international flavours and new techniques, reflecting the nation’s changing attitudes to food. The Great British Baking Show remains a beloved programme, but as the UK’s food culture continues to diversify, its relevance may depend on its ability to adapt. London’s food scene, for instance, is a vibrant testament to global influences, with restaurants like Core by Clare Smyth and Ikoyi redefining fine dining. The show’s contestants reflect this diversity, often introducing flavours inspired by their heritage or personal journeys. For GBBS to remain a cultural touchstone, its judges must not only embrace these changes but actively celebrate them.

For now, fans can only hope that the programme finds a way to honour both its traditional roots and the adventurous spirit of its bakers. After all, baking is as much about creativity as it is about skill. To keep audiences engaged, The Great British Baking Show must evolve, just like the bakers it seeks to showcase.

For more insights into Britain’s food trends and the evolution of beloved shows like The Great British Baking Show, visit EyeOnLondon.

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