The annual competition has awarded ten teams composed of three students and their tutor with a first prize ‘trip of a lifetime’ to an Asian culinary capital. Last year’s champions from the University of West London spent over a week in Bangkok.

One of the main criteria for entry is that students hold permanent residency in the UK. In this way, the competition strives for a legacy whereby talent in Asian cuisine remains in the UK.

Cyrus Todiwala OBE FIH said: “I have always said that Zest Quest Asia is the competition for the most talented and ambitious student chefs. Pervin and I have seen how incrementally through the years the competition has made inroads. More and more colleges seem to be encouraging their students and tutors to take Asian cuisine seriously.

“So I would call on all colleges to give their students the opportunity to experience the excitement of preparing and cooking of Asian food. Asian ingredients that can be used in Asian cooking are more popular than ever. You have so much to gain.”

Deadline for submission of entries is Friday 8th December 2023. Finalists will be announced on Wednesday 4th January 2024.

Tilda Rice has been confirmed as headline sponsorship of Zest Quest Asia 2024 and coming on board as gold sponsors are Hilton London Wembley, Panasonic and the Tokyo College of Sushi and Washoku, London.

For more information on Zest Quest Asia 2024, including rules and how to submit entries, contact Cora Strachan [email protected] or visit www.zestquestasia.org.