Working with unique South African flavour combinations, experimenting with different ingredients, measurements and cooking styles, but most of all family fun, were the highlights at the Spur Secret Tribe Chief Cook competition recently held at Prue Leith Chef’s Academy in Centurion, Pretoria.
15 family teams from across the greater Pretoria came together to create culinary delights and compete against each other to create the best Gourmet Burger and a Mzansi-inspired salad. The teams were made up of a variety of combinations (mother-and-son, mother-and-daughter and father-and-daughter), who went all out to win the top prizes in each category. The event was part of a competition for Spur’s loyal Secret Tribe members – an exclusive club for kids aged 12 years and younger.
Each team was given two challenges. First challenge was to create a salad, focusing on freshness, flavour combinations and a salad dressing with a twist, using Spur Sauces. Butternut, biltong, feta cheese where the top favourite ingredients.
Next up each team had to create their version of Gourmet Burger, working with the famous Spur burger patty and sauces, as well as a variety of toppings to create the ultimate burger.
In each round the teams were judged on their ability to work together, as well as the taste of their food, what toppings they used, how well the flavours worked together and how they plated their food.
The ‘Best Burger’ challenge was won by mother-and-daughter team, Anneke Flower and 10-year old Yazzmin, who scored well in the taste category, using a delicious combination of sauces and toppings. Mother-and-daughter team, Funzani Shandukani and 6-year old Pfunzo came a close second.
Mom-and-son team, Thobeka Skhosana and 8-year old Nkosikhona were awarded the first prize for their Mzansi-inspired salad, scoring high on the flavour profile and full marks for their excellent teamwork. The runners up were mom-and-daughter team Tshegofatso Motsei and 9-year old Gogontle.
“It was a pleasure hosting our eighth Chief Cook event in Pretoria. All the contestants were so enthusiastic and it was great to see how the teams worked together. Our lives are so busy and this event is an opportunity for families to slow down, spend time in the kitchen making great food from scratch and enjoy each other’s company. It was the first time we challenged contestants to make a salad, creating a delicious balance between the burger and the salad flavours!” says Joe Stead, Creative Director from Spur Steak Ranches. “Thank you also to Spur Sauces, Rhodes, Freddy Hirsch, KinderJoy, Plush and SunPick who partnered with us to bring families together in the kitchen”.