Edinburgh College students work alongside some of Scotland's top culinary talents for The Chefs’ Forum annual lunch
A group of Edinburgh College Professional Cookery students got a taste of life at the top of their profession after sharing the kitchen with some of Scotland’s finest chefs as they prepared lunch for The Chefs’ Forum at Edinburgh’s iconic Scotsman Hotel recently.
Working under the guidance of four expert chefs, the College’s Level 1 Professional Cookery students played a key role in delivering the four-course menu, joining each chef in the kitchen to prepare their specially curated dish.
The team were also joined by their peers from West Lothian College, who were tasked with supporting the front-of-house operation and serving meals to guests.
First up on the day was James McDonald, Executive Head Chef at The Bothy Glasgow, who opened the lunch with BBQ hispi cabbage, cashew butter and chimichurri.
Photography by Carlos Farinha
Edward Fortune, Head Chef at The Murrayfield Hotel, followed with hake poached in mushroom broth, Scottish chanterelles and tarragon.
Photography by Carlos Farinha
Host chef Kristofer Currie, Executive Chef at The Scotsman Hotel, served Aussie Wagyu sirloin with braised Aussie Wagyu cheek fondant, beef-fat carrot, carrot-top pistou, carrot granola and Bordelaise sauce.
Photography by Carlos Farinha
Finally, dessert came from Can Misirlioglu, Head Pastry Chef at The Grand Café, who presented a contemporary Cranachan éclair.
Photography by Carlos Farinha
Nikita Panwar, Level 1 Professional Cookery student from Edinburgh College, was delighted to be involved in the event where she was recognised for her excellent contribution in the kitchen earning her the Kitchen Star Award:
“It was an amazing experience to work alongside some of Scotland’s top chefs. I gained a lot of valuable new skills, grew in confidence and found out what it's like to work in a professional kitchen. Receiving the Kitchen Star Award means lot to me and I’m grateful to the College for this amazing opportunity.”
Photography by Carlos Farinha
Nikita’s lecturer, Jack Evans, was full of praise for the young chef:
“We're so proud of Nikkita. When she started the course, she was a little shy, so seeing her shine and gain this recognition, along with the possibility of her securing a job, was amazing! Her story is exactly why we do what we do."
Jack, who was instrumental in setting up the partnership with The Chefs’ Forum, believes it is not only beneficial for the students involved:
"Since I started The Chefs’ Forum partnership, it has gone from strength to strength, continuing to grow year on year, and has become an integral part of the curriculum calendar. The aim was not only for students to benefit from the opportunity, but also for lecturing staff to get involved. It has been incredibly rewarding to see this happen, and it has generated a real buzz within the team.”
Delighted with the success of the event, Catherine Farinha, Founder of The Chefs’ Forum, said:
“What an extraordinary celebration of Scottish hospitality. It was a privilege to bring together such an impressive gathering of chefs, hoteliers, restaurateurs and industry partners in the magnificent surroundings of The Scotsman Hotel.
“Our four chefs delivered a truly exceptional menu, each bringing their own creativity, technical expertise and passion. I would like to thank James McDonald, Edward Fortune, Kristofer Currie and Can Misirlioglu for their tremendous contribution.
“What made the day particularly special was seeing the students from Edinburgh College and West Lothian College working alongside these talented professionals. Chloe and Nikita were true stars of the day, and their achievements are exactly why we continue to champion hospitality education through our events.
“We are deeply grateful to The Scotsman Hotel, our college partners and every supplier who supported this event. Together, we are creating genuine opportunities for the next generation and celebrating the extraordinary talent already working across Scotland’s hospitality industry.”