NZ Chefs Emerging Chef Competition 2024

In June, we were pleased to host with NZ Chefs Emerging Chef Competition 2024 with guest judges Geoff Scott from AUT Auckland University of Technology, Kelda Skelton and Karl Seidel from Nestle, the main sponsor. Other sponsors included Akaroa Salmon and House of Knives.

After many weeks of trial and practice under Chef Finn's watchful eye, five candidates presented their two dishes.

Congratulations to Ema Vodenicharova: Winner + Gold medal

Pan-seared AKAROA Salmon fillet, Creamy green pea risotto, Crispy beetroot twine & oyster mushrooms, Buitoni tomato coulis, mustard vinaigrette

Frozen Mascarpone mouse with QUEENS vanilla extract & NESCAFÉ White chocolate and almond shell, Roasted grapes, grape and Cognac coulis

Judges’ comments: Beautiful dessert- excellent balance of flavours, Very tidy and methodical work methods

Dan Ramsey: Silver Medal

Cured manuka smoked AKAROA salmon,infused Nestle vegetable boost, parsnip puree, brown buttered potatoes, sauteed leeks, citrus beurre blanc & parsley oil

Pistachio biscuit with Nestle chocolate & Queens vanilla bean, tangy lemon curd, citrus shard & candied lemon, skin torched meringue

Judges’ comments: Very tidy work methods, Excellent presentation for both dishes – well thought through

Gabriel Nelson: Bronze Medal

Manuka smoked and pan seared AKAROA salmon, with spicy Nestle Maple syrup sauce, fried potatoes, kumara & zucchini

Chocolate, coffee Apricot cake with poached mandarin & sesame seed syrup

Judges’ comments: Salmon – great flavour – perfectly cooked, Innovative cooking of salmon - great use of cooking methods.

Reanna Dugmore: Bronze Medal

Pan-seared AKAROA Salmon with a potato snake, BUITONI Sugo Al Pomodoro gel, pickled fennel, grilled butternut, poached onion, creamy fennel sauce & herb oil

Nestle Coffee + Nestle Royal Chocolate Couverture bavarois, Nestle Sweetened Condensed milk sauce, Lemon infused poached pear with Organic Vanilla Bean Paste + macadamia biscuit and caramel tuile

Judges’ comments: Pear beautifully prepared and poached, Fennel salad well done – good freshness and crunch