Culinary Art 2007

Men with many flavours, all under one roof at the BMICH at present that ends tomorrow:

by Prasad Abu Bakr

Our cover depicts many chefs and some of their creations as shown during the last few years at various culinary art shows. It is one of the most amazing shows ever put up by a professional body annually, bringing together a large number of members of the Chefs Guild of Sri Lanka which is the principal organiser of this

 gigantic annual event.

What will any five star hotel be without the men in the kitchen who actually strive to keep that five star status intact, or for that matter any old hotel is only as good as the food they serve. If the food is lousy no matter what the star grading is its existence will be very short.

The Chefs Guild is a part of the World Association of Cooks Societies, which is represented in 72 countries covering over 8 million cooks and chefs. Culinary Art 2007 which is happening at present, though started off as an annual event, since 1993 it is held every other year which allows members to participate at international events such as the 'Culinaire Challenge' in Singapore.

Yesterday which was Day One of this major showpiece of the country's hospitality industry saw a maximum number of participants competing at different events. A five Course Set Dinner Menu, Petit Fours or Pralines, Artistic Pastry and Bakery Showpieces, Butter Sculpture, Apprentice Hot Cooking (live), Live Fruit and Vegetable carving contest, Sri Lankan Hot Meal (team work) and Hot Cooking (individual).

Today too, there are numerous competitions which can interest visitors even if they are not connected to the industry. Wedding Cake structure which is done live, High Tea Competition, Artistic Pastry showpiece, Ice Carving competition, Dress the Cake together with many other events are due to be conducted throughout the

 day.

Tomorrow which is the final day similar contests and competitions will be carried out and some of the major prizes and awards will be presented. Bringing this grand event to its ultimate climax.

This year however the Guild has introduced two new segments to the programme. Creative Coffee competition and a High Tea competition designed to address an essential need in contemporary hospitality trends.

This years show will see through many medals and awards presented in the following categories. Most Outstanding Chef, Most Outstanding Apprentice, Most Outstanding Pastry Chef and The Best Hotel Team.