The BCF Young Chef of the Year 2016 open for entries
The British Culinary Federation (BCF) has announced details for this year's BCF Young Chef of the Year competition.
The competition, which aims to motivate and encourage young chefs to showcase their skills, is held in two stages. The first is through a paper entry. Applicants must submit their entries by 10 October 2016 in order to be judged.
The second part will take place at Bonnet Kitchen, University of Birmingham on 7 November where chefs will be required to produce a three-course menu for two covers.
The first course must include fish or shellfish, the second to include duck, but the chefs are given free reign with their choice of dessert.
Judges will mark: the presentation and content of submitted entry; working methods; professional techniques and culinary skills; hygiene practices; timing; quality and balance of textures and flavours and presentation of finished dishes.
Permitted mise-en-place include: washed and peeled vegetables and fruit, but not cut; Stocks (not manufactured other than Major); weighed ingredients and uncooked pastry. However, excessive amounts of mise-en-place will incur penalty points.
The winner will receive the David Bache Trophy, a cheque for £250, a winner's commemorative plate and framed certificate. The winner will also be invited to the winners lunch with Villeroy and Boch.
Competition organiser, Peter Griffiths, said: "Over the past 18 years we have seen the standard and individual styles and culinary skills continue to improve, and expect this year's competition to be no exception. It is important to take time and care over your written presentation, as it could ultimately increase your chances of success."
Last year, Jonathan Ferguson, from Restaurant Andrew Fairlie was named winner of the competition. Second place went to Leonidas Kattou of Simpson's Restaurant, Birmingham, and Jack Gameson from University College Birmingham, came third.
The competition is open to any chef under the age of 23. Non-members of the BCF must pay a £20 fee, which includes one year's membership.
Entry form can also be downloaded from the BCF website: www.britishculinaryfederation.co.uk
Jonathan Ferguson wins BCF Young Chef of the Year 2015 >>
Martin Carabott wins BCF Chef of the Year 2016 >>
Adam Handling named BCF Chef of the Year 2014 >>
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