Chef Ben Champkin has beaten off stiff competition from top UK chefs to be crowned winner of Kikkoman Masters 2015
Ben, 22, Chef de Partie at L’Enclume in Cartwell, Cumbria had 90 minutes to create a starter and main course. The challenge was completed under the watchful eyes of the judges plus over a hundred spectators at The Restaurant Show, Olympia.
Ben’s starter of Penny Bridge Dexter, Oysters, Soy & Sea Herbs followed by his main course of Cornish Monkfish, Miso, Radish, Turnips & Hen of the Woods have won him a 7 day working-trip to Japan.
Michelin-starred Chef Simon Hulstone, chair of the 6-strong panel of judges said; “Ben’s dishes looked and tasted absolutely stunning and showed good innovative use of soy sauce.
Each dish had to use Kikkoman Naturally Brewed Soy Sauce, the world’s best-selling soy sauce, as an integral part of the recipe.
Ben said: “I feel fantastic! I really enjoyed taking part in the Kikkoman Masters 2015 competition. The other 7 finalists had very good dishes so I knew it was going to be tough. I was pleased with my dishes and thrilled to win the title Kikkoman Masters 2015 Winner. A trip to Japan is a lifetime opportunity and a chance to learn more about the wonderful Japanese culture and cuisine.
Ben, a chef for 5 years is no stranger to competitions. He was crowned Young Chef of the Year in 2013 and competed in the Culinary World Cup team in 2014.
Kikkoman UK Manager, Bing-yu Lee said: The Kikkoman Masters gives innovative chefs the opportunity to showcase their creativity and skill and at the same time experience the quality, taste and versatility of Kikkoman Naturally Brewed Soy Sauce. The standard of entries was exceptionally high and Ben is a worthy winner.
1st Runner Up was awarded to Craig Bateman of Compass HQ. Craig was presented with £350 of catering vouchers. 2nd Runner up was given to Fred Wilson of Colettes, The Grove Hotel, Hertford who wins £150 of catering vouchers.
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