Member Article

Young chefs selected for national Oriental cookery competition

A nationwide search to find a young chef who excels in Oriental Cooking has moved a step closer as 16 finalists have been chosen for the annual competition.

It is the third year that Wing Yip, the UK’s leading Oriental grocer, has launched its search to find an up-and-coming chef who has a real flair for Pan Asian flavours.

This year, 16 people have made it through to the finals where they will have the chance to showcase their skills before a renowned panel of judges on February 16 at University College Birmingham.

The winner will receive an exclusive trip to Hong Kong where they will sample culinary delights, work in Michelin-starred restaurants and explore the vibrant street food scene.

Putting the contestants through their paces will be Peter Griffiths, head judge and President of the British Culinary Federation, Michelin-starred chef Glynn Purnell and Larkin Cen, 2013 MasterChef finalist and director of Asian food innovation Hokkei.

The competition was open to applicants, aged between 18 and 25 years, who are studying or employed in the catering and hospitality industry. The first stage required them to design an Oriental-inspired menu using ingredients of their choice.

The finalists come from far and wide, including trainee chefs studying at institutions such as Warwick University, the University of West London, University College Birmingham and Bradford College, to chefs working at a variety of restaurants from the International Convention Centre in Birmingham, to the House of Commons and Saunton Sands Hotel, in Devon.

W. Wing Yip, chairman of Wing Yip, which has superstores in Cricklewood, Croydon, Birmingham and Manchester selling more than 4,500 Oriental products, said: “This year we have been inundated with high quality applications and the standard has been extremely high. It was certainly a difficult decision for the judges to choose the best 16.

“We are extremely proud to support young chefs and encourage them to experiment with the wonderful variety of ingredients and cooking styles found in Oriental cuisine.”

Last year, the competition was won by Robert Hall, from Essex, who worked in the House of Commons.

Peter Griffiths said: “Getting your first break in the catering industry can be difficult and taking part in competitions like Young Chef boosts credibility and open doors to a successful career in the industry.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Caroline Garbett .