The battle of the Chefs has commenced in the North East for a position in the finals for the first Maria Mallaband and Countrywide Chef Competition. The North East is delighted to have three of our own nominated for the finals and regional judging has commenced. All three Chefs’ in the region have to prepare and cook a three course dinner within the resident’s budget. A resident along with two regional judges are then required to sample all three meals and a pureed meal to decide who will represent the North East in the competition.
Our first contestant was Alan Savage, Head Chef at Astor Court Care Complex who swooped in with his gorgeous vegetable soup, fish pie and fruit fool. He certainly impressed our resident Jean who thoroughly enjoyed each course, especially the fruit fool. Alan took inspiration from the menu from the residents asking them what their favourite dishes were and they were more than happy to give him some ideas. The two favourites were fish pie and Sunday dinner but the majority vote went for the fish pie.
Second up was Moria Holmes, Head Chef at Earsdon Grange Care Home who delivered a melon boat, chicken cobbler and dreamy bread and butter pudding. Her menu was also inspired by the residents who went back to the Victoria day when good old fashioned, hearty meals were given and they provided Moira with a list of home made food they enjoyed growing up, with a few new ideas thrown in. Flo our resident judge at Earsdon Grange loved the meal. Her favourite was the bread and butter pudding with home made custard which was so light and fluffy you just had to have seconds.
But what will Julie Birch from Garden Hill Care Home deliver? Stay tuned to see our third and final meal for the week and learn just who will be flying the flag of the North East in the MMCG and Countryside Chef of the Year competition.