Oui Chef Carême: The Original Celebrity Chef of the Napoleonic Era

Antonin Carême was a culinary genius of the Napoleonic era, known for his exquisite pastries and towering culinary creations. Although he passed away in the 1830s, his legacy lives on as a pioneer of French cuisine and perhaps the world’s first celebrity chef.

In this new Apple TV+ series, “Carême,” we get a glimpse into the life and adventures of this legendary chef. From rising from poverty as a kitchen boy to cooking for Napoleon and his circle, Carême’s journey is as fascinating as his dessert creations. The show even features a cooking contest reminiscent of “Top Chef,” with judges to impress.

Imagine a setting like “The Bear” in post-revolutionary Paris, with a talented and charismatic chef leading the kitchen staff. Benjamin Voisin takes on the role of Carême, channeling a Mick Jagger-esque swagger and rock ‘n’ roll attitude that adds a modern twist to this historical drama.

As the series unfolds, we see Carême not just as a master pastry maker, but also as a central figure in political intrigue. From being used as a spy to creating grand banquets for thousands of people, his journey to becoming the best chef in the world is both captivating and delicious.

The production of “Carême” spared no detail, with actors like Voisin and Alice Da Luz immersing themselves in cooking techniques and kitchen choreography to bring authenticity to their roles. The actors spent weeks in a meticulously recreated kitchen, learning the art of French culinary tradition and mastering dishes like the croquembouche tower and vol-au-vent pastry shells.

For those looking to brush up on history, “Carême” is set in the early years of Napoleon’s reign, offering a glimpse into the political landscape of the time. Even the actors had to delve into the period’s history to bring their characters to life, making this series not only entertaining but also educational.

With its blend of food, sex, and politics, “Carême” offers a tantalizing look into the world of a culinary legend and the drama that unfolded in the kitchens and corridors of power during the Napoleonic era. So grab a snack and settle in for a feast of flavors and intrigue with this delectable new series.