A young chef from a Liverpool is celebrating today after cooking his way to the title of Merseyside Young Chef of the Year 2014.
Daniel Heffy, 20, from The Arts School in Liverpool (grand opening soon) took part in the two and a half hour cook off at Wirral Met College on 15th April 2014, as part of the North West Young Chef Competition, sponsored by Essential Cuisine.
On winning, Daniel said he was extremely pleased and happy, especially as 3 of his serving plates smashed on their way to the college. But keeping calm and re-planning his presentation, Daniel served 3 fantastic courses and was crowned champion.
His starter was mackerel served with orange and melon salad, followed by lamb loin and sweetbreads main course. His dessert was a delicious vanilla pannacotta with textures of rhubarb and ginger.
In preparation for developing his menu, Daniel said âI spoke to local suppliers to discuss what ingredients would be in season at the time of the heats, which is why I chose my mackerel starter and lamb main course.â
âIâve had friends enter the competition in the past and win, and Iâve seen how much theyâve got out of it. This year I wanted it to be my turn, and I canât wait for the final in June.â
Daniel faced tough competition on the day from his competitors; Thomas Ince from Jurys Inn, Eugenio Pagano from Il Forno, and Daniel Parker from Alleycats.
Judges on the day were Chairman of Judges Brian Mellor, Managing Director of Essential Cuisine Nigel Crane, and Masterchef: The Professionals winner 2010, Claire Lara.
Also sponsored by CHR Foodservice Equipment, the competition which is in its 12th year seeks to find young talent in the North West.
Daniel will now go on to attend a master class with an acclaimed chef to hone skills with the industryâs best, before going on to compete against the other regional winners in the final of North West Young Chef Competition, which will be held at Manchester College on 18th June 2014.
