Katrina Nightingale, a talented teenager from Somerset, demonstrated her exceptional culinary skills by securing the runner-up position at the Rotary Young Chef Awards 2024. Displaying her proficiency in the kitchen, Katrina successfully navigated through four rigorous rounds to earn a spot in the national final, which took place at St Benedict’s High School in Alcester. The event, sponsored by renowned Italian food company Filippo Berio, showcased Katrina’s passion for utilizing top-quality local produce synonymous with Somerset in her cooking. Her final dish, featuring pan-seared Exmoor pork tenderloin, fondant potatoes, herb-roasted carrots, parsnip puree, and purple-sprouting broccoli with a Somerset honey and mustard cream sauce, along with a delectable lemon mousse served with fresh local raspberries and white chocolate-drizzled Viennese biscuits, captivated the judges' palates.
Supported by Rotary Wiveliscombe, Katrina’s impressive journey to the final included triumphing in various qualifying rounds, culminating in her showcasing her culinary artistry during the grand final. During this pinnacle event, Katrina had a limited two-hour window to prepare and present her signature dish, which was evaluated by esteemed judges Lisa Mullins, Filippo Berio’s marketing manager and a staunch Rotary Young Chef advocate, and Elaine Wroblewska, a catering lecturer at the Heart of Worcestershire College. Both judges were highly impressed by Katrina’s culinary prowess, leading to her securing the title of runner-up.
A representative from Rotary Wiveliscombe expressed immense pride in Katrina’s accomplishments and lauded her for not only reaching the final but also clinching the runner-up position. Katrina’s exceptional culinary creations were described as a superb showcase of the region’s renowned produce, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of Somerset. With aspirations for a promising future, Katrina is poised for continued success in the culinary world, and enthusiasts eagerly anticipate savoring more of her delectable dishes.
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The Rotary Young Chef competition, spanning over 15 years, continues to spotlight the extraordinary culinary talents of young individuals across Great Britain and Ireland. Open to participants aged 11-17, this prestigious competition, sponsored by Rotary Clubs, attracts a multitude of aspiring young chefs each year, showcasing their culinary prowess on a national platform.