The workshop centered around the theme of street food, with learners pairing up to plan and execute an original dish that could utilise high quality ingredients.  

Burritos, curries, risottos and exotic salads were just some of the dishes produced by the College’s learners – all of whom had only been with the College for three months. Their efforts won praise from the Essential Cuisine team, with learners Ruby and Phoebe winning the taste competition for their Curry Beef Risotto with a Crispy Onion Bhaji.

Gary Kilminster, business development chef at Essential Cuisine, said: “My colleague Robin [Dudley] and I were both extremely impressed with the students’ work and many of these dishes were of restaurant quality. We were able to impart some new ideas and approaches to their work, as well as discuss hospitality career paths that they may not have considered before, such as schools, hospitals and events. We look forward to our next visit.”

Essential Cuisine is a catering food and drink supplier that uses trends and research to supply high quality products and skilled development for current and future talent in the hospitality industry. They collaborate closely with businesses in the healthcare and education sectors, helping to ‘inspire menus’ through taste, better sustainability and enhanced allergen accessibility.

The Hospitality and Catering team at Eastleigh College commented: “A huge thanks to Gary and Robin for coming into the College and lending their expert guidance, as well as the entire Essential Cuisine team for providing these delicious supplies that enabled our learners to craft such a rich variety of meals.

“These dynamic workshops help introduce new flavours and techniques, while strengthening communication and teamwork skills. Our Level 1 Professional Cookery learners did an amazing job and can feel very proud of themselves.”