Culinary Competitions Set the Stage for the ICF’s 21st Annual Chef Awards

To honor the exceptional skills of talented chefs, the Indian Culinary Forum (ICF) organized a vibrant culinary competition as part of the 21st Annual Chef Awards in celebration of International Chef’s Day. Over 150 chefs participated in this exhilarating four-day event, showcasing their culinary artistry across 11 distinct categories. The atmosphere was electric as culinary talents from various backgrounds came together to demonstrate their creativity and expertise.

The competitions commenced at the Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute, where the first day featured the categories of Master Chef International Cuisine, Master Chef Butcher, and Master Chef Kebab. Chefs displayed their skills and creativity, impressing judges and peers alike with innovative dishes. On the second day, the focus shifted to Master Chef North Indian Cuisine, Master Chef Indian Sweets, and Master Chef East West South Indian, highlighting the rich diversity of Indian culinary traditions.

The excitement continued on the third day with competitions in Master Chef Oriental Cuisine, Fruit & Vegetable Carving, and the Student Chef of the Year category. These events not only showcased the abilities of established chefs but also provided a platform for aspiring culinary talent. The final day of the competition were held at the Institute of Bakery & Culinary Arts (IBCA) in Vikaspuri, New Delhi, featuring Master Chef Baker and Master Chef International Confectionery categories. Participants astounded the judges by crafting and presenting delectable dishes in captivating forms, each creation reflecting their unique culinary perspective.

The competitions were assessed by a distinguished panel of WACS-certified jury members, chaired by the esteemed Chef Nimish Bhatia, with Chef Rajeev Chopra serving as the organizing secretary. Their expertise and guidance ensured a fair evaluation process, celebrating not only the skills of the winners but also the hard work and creativity of all participants.

Chef Davinder Kumar, the President of the Indian Culinary Forum, expressed his pride in the overwhelming participation and exceptional talent displayed during the competitions. “As we celebrate International Chef’s Day, it’s vital to recognize the incredible dedication and passion that chefs bring to the culinary arts. The 21st Annual Chef Awards not only highlight the achievements of our talented chefs but also serve as a reminder of the importance of nurturing and promoting culinary excellence. By showcasing their skills in this competition, we inspire others to pursue their culinary dreams and elevate Indian cuisine on the world stage,” he stated.

The winners of this prestigious culinary contest will be awarded during the Grand Chef Awards 2024 ceremony, which is scheduled for October 17, 2024, at Hotel Ashok, New Delhi. This ceremony promises to be a grand celebration of culinary excellence, bringing together chefs, food enthusiasts, and industry leaders to honor the outstanding achievements within the culinary community.

Chef Vivek Saggar, the General Secretary of the Indian Culinary Forum, added, “The 21st Annual Chef Awards and the accompanying competitions are pivotal in promoting the culinary arts in India. These events highlight the hard work and dedication of chefs who are committed to showing their mettle on the global stage. We are proud to support their journey and encourage young talent to explore a career in the culinary field. Our goal is to foster a strong community of chefs who can collectively enhance the reputation of Indian culinary traditions worldwide.”

Established in 1987 in New Delhi, the Indian Culinary Forum (ICF) stands as India’s premier association of professional chefs, functioning as a non-profit organization exclusively committed to advancing the culinary art of India. The ICF acts as a bridge, a platform, and a catalyst for the growth and holistic development of the national community of chefs. The World Association of Cooks Societies (WACS) encompasses numerous professional chefs’ organizations worldwide, representing more than nine million professional chefs across 110 countries. The ICF embraces an international culinary perspective in the orchestration of its diverse competitions, seminars, and events. In a broader sense, the ICF seeks to encourage and inspire budding chefs through training and competition, elevate the global prestige of Indian cuisine, motivate Indian nationals to consider careers within the hospitality sector, champion Indian culinary traditions on the global stage, and nurture young chefs’ culinary skills through training, workshops, and competitions.