15 year old Isabelle Chavez from St Nicholas School, Fleet, has created a stir in the final of this year’s exciting Rotary International in Great Britain & Ireland (RIBI) Young Chef competition, in association with Filippo Berio, the UK’s leading olive oil brand.
Isabelle, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Fleet, won the trophy, after coming top out of thousands of youngsters who entered the competition. Judges were very impressed with her outstanding three course menu:
Starter
Smoked haddock pâté, beetroot relish, malted soda bread
Main Course
Rolled turkey breast, wrapped in Pancetta, gratin dauphinoise and baked carrots
Dessert
Lemon tart with raspberry coulis
Isabelle faced seven other top young chefs from across the country in the national final, which took place in Denman College, Oxford. She was not only up against other chefs but raced against time as there were just two hours to create a three-course meal within the £15 budget.
Isabelle not only claims the trophy but will enjoy the trip of a lifetime to the Filippo Berio olive groves in Tuscany, where she will experience real Italian cooking. She will also enjoy a day’s cooking tuition at a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Speaking after the competition, a very excited Isabelle said: “I am over the moon at winning the competition. I love cooking and the atmosphere here is just amazing. My family and friends have been great supporters. I’m really looking forward to the day’s cookery experience and the trip to Tuscany.
“If anyone is thinking of entering the competition next year I would say just go for it. It’s nerve-wracking sometimes but very worthwhile.”
Second place was awarded to Elise Mabbutt from Norwich, third place was given to Emma Rooke from Preston. Winning the best dish award was Zoe Sing from Exeter for her chocolate mousse with hazelnut praline dessert.
RIBI Young Chef was created to give young people across Great Britain and Ireland the chance to display their creative talents with food, while discovering the importance of healthy eating.
President of RIBI, Ray Burman said: “This is one of the most demanding competitions in the RIBI New Generations portfolio. The contestants need to stay cool in the kitchen, despite their obvious passion and knowledge for food. Isabelle is a talented young chef and I may even ask for cooking lessons myself.
“This competition is given extra flavour thanks to the partnership with Filippo Berio. Their support over the past five years is very much appreciated. Having the backing of a family run company where good food is at the heart of all their activities really brings this competition to life.”
Published: 21st April 2012
