1 November 2013
Winner named in Care Cook Awards
The head chef from Ipswich based Bucklesham Grange has been named the winner of Hallmark Care Homes Care Chef of the Year 2013. James Clear took part in the challenge at Unilever’s Headquarters in Surrey along with colleagues from 3 other homes in the group. The finalists included Sarah Savidge, from Admiral Court, Ben Hadwick, from Alexandra Grange, and Clare Wilkins from Cwrt Enfys.
James, along with his fellow competitors, was tasked with producing a 3 course meal, in 90 minutes, suitable for residents in a care home. They were all presented with a mystery box of ingredients on the day and had little time to devise their menu. All participants were judged by Paul Wright (Executive Chef at Unilever), Ian Cole (Hospitality Services Manager), and Scott Sinfield (Marketing Coordinator). The judges based their decisions on originality, presentation, flavour and menu design.
James created a menu of smoked mackerel pate with a red pepper sauce, followed by chicken breast stuffed with cream cheese and chives accompanied by braised carrots and a mushroom duxelles puff pastry case, all finished off with an apple and blackberry frangipane tart accompanies by flavoured cream. He was presented with a packed hamper from Unilever and from Hallmark Care Homes as well as the sought after trophy.
Judge Scott Sinfield said, “It was a close fought competition and all the cooks stepped up to the challenge with fantastic results.”
James said of his success, “This was the first time I have had the opportunity to enter the competition and I really enjoyed the event. I am really proud of myself and can’t wait to take the trophy back to Bucklesham Grange for everyone to see.”
James will go on to represent Hallmark Care Homes in external catering competitions in 2014.
