Culinary cadets taste competitive cook-off success
Local wannabe chefs show off their skills in the Spar KZN Junior Chef finals.
THREE local culinary cadets challenged themselves in the finals of the Spar KZN Junior Chef at Gecko Culinary Adventures on Friday, 11 July.
Kirsten Gregory (11) and Zara-Leah Smith (10) from Brighton Beach Senior Primary School and Tyler Noah (12) from Gardenia Primary School took on three other junior chefs, with Kirsten taking second place with his ham and mushroom quiche and Tyler coming in third with a coconut tart. The competition was won by Micky Beckley (1) from Kloof with a white chocolate and raspberry cake. Zara-Leah produced chicken a la king for the competition.
After the trio had handed over the meals they prepared to the judges for tasting, they and their fellow competitors were tasked with making a second mystery dish – burgers.
“I know my way around the kitchen but I am impressed with what these children are capable of. The end result from each of the junior chefs looked absolutely delicious. The way they cleaned up their work spaces, plated their dishes, wiping down any unwanted food was almost as good as what we see on Master Chef. Deena, watch out,” said Spar KZN MD, Rob Philipson.
Main judge, Jesse Felthuis from Gecko Culinary Adventures added: “When I was 10 I could make crumpets. I am looking forward to and excited to see what the next generation will be able to produce.”
