LOUISE McGrath from John The Baptist School in Limerick has been crowned the senior winner of the All-island Super Chef Schools Cookery competition run under the auspices of the Restaurants Association of Ireland and St. Angela’s College, Sligo.
Last week, following a tense final, Louise was crowned champion in a competition that was judged by a panel of experts including award winning chef Shamzuri Hanifa of The Cottage Restaurant, Leitrim.
Super Chef was open to all students in post-primary schools on the island of Ireland and Youthreach Centres in the Republic of Ireland. 32 students (16 Junior and 16 Senior), from 17 different counties, were selected to go forward to the 2016 final based on almost 900 entries submitted by over 200 schools and Youthreach centres across the country.
The competition, which is now in its second year, is endorsed by Healthy Ireland and gives students an opportunity to create tasty, healthy and affordable meals at home or in school. Students were asked to submit their favourite healthy meal (main course dish only) for two people.
Louise McGrath, earned her title with a ‘Wholemeal, Upside Down Salmon Tart with Cream Cheese’ recipe.
Amanda McCloat, Head of the Home Economics Department in St. Angela’s College commented, “This competition aims to encourage students to display their culinary capabilities while also promoting the importance of healthy eating and giving due cognisance to budgetary requirements. We are delighted to allow students the opportunity to showcase their talents once again this year.”
Speaking about his involvement in the competition, Shamzuri Hanifa of The Cottage Restaurant, said; “I was really impressed at the level of talent shown by students across the two days of competition. All students showed great skill and it’s clear they have a passion for food. I have no doubt they have great careers ahead of them.”
In the junior category, Bobby Hayes from Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh under the supervision of his teacher Ms Clodagh Ní Chronin finished runner-up.
