Kruinie cook claims third place in regionals

DEAN Barnard (11), a pupil at Laerskool Kruinsig, claimed third place at the Johannesburg Hirsch’s and Defy Junior Super Chef competition in Fourways.

Six finalists claimed their spot in the finals through various exciting stages of a cook-off in June at all Hirsch branches around the country.

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Ranging in age from eight to 13 and from various areas, the enthusiastic finalists had to battle it out on the showroom floor. They had to show off their cooking skills, using a mystery bag of products and cooking on a Snappy Chef induction plate and Defy Microwave Air oven to impress judges.

Dean’s dish, crumbed prawns, chips and a fillet smiley face was one of the judge’s favourites of the evening, claiming his third place.

Dean’s father, Jean, gave him some wonderful advice before the cook-off. “Just focus, don’t stress and win or lose, you are a winner to us.”

Giving some feedback on his passion for cooking, Dean said: “I prefer baking but when I do cook, I love cooking chicken. I also make all the deserts in the house so we have something sweet every day.”

Dean’s culinary heroine is Ina Garten, the Barefoot Contessa, and looking into the future, he wants to become a chocolatier one day.

Christine Phillips, a judge on the evening, well known for her recent cook-book, The timeless family food Journal, qualified chef and founder of the Little Cooks Club, was involved in the Johannesburg Junior Super Chef from the beginning.

“The highlight of this whole competition was watching how the contestants confidently planned their menus and final dish. It was an unforgettable experience working with these contestants and the Hirsch’s team.”