A 24-year-old Christchurch chef, Anshul Gurung, has made his mark at the prestigious Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award competition, held in Melbourne this week, winning multiple medals and a top award.
Gurung impressed judges with his creative three-course menu, which earned him three silver medals and the Best Savoury Award, along with a $2,500 tuition package. It was his first time competing at the Grand Finals, where he represented the South Island.
The competition brought together ten of the best young chefs from Australia and New Zealand, including Auckland’s Emily Morgan. Gurung, though no stranger to culinary competitions, said he returned to the Golden Chefs event because of the valuable lessons he had learned during his previous experience. “I like to stretch myself by competing,” he said.
His award-winning menu featured a creamy pea mousse with citrus gel, smoked ricotta, and chilli macadamia for the entrée. His main course was a delicate rost biff with silver beet, a butternut and potato terrine, charred onion puree, and spiced butternut jus. For dessert, he prepared a french vanilla and raspberry entremets with white chocolate and coconut crumble, macerated berries, and dark chocolate.
The judges, comprising experts from the Australian Culinary Federation, NZChefs, and Nestlé Professional, assessed the competitors on professional practices, presentation, and taste, all held to globally recognised standards.
NZChefs judge Geoff Scott said the competition allows young chefs to test themselves, make connections, and learn from each other. “Anshul and Emily delivered standout dishes under immense pressure. Just making it this far, let alone winning medals and awards, is a significant achievement,” Scott said.
Emily Morgan also excelled, winning two silvers, a gold medal, and an award for the Most Creative Use of a Nestlé Product. However, the overall winner of the event was Australia’s Archer Houghton, who took home a travel and work experience package to the World Chef’s Congress 2024 in Singapore, valued at $10,000.
For nearly six decades, the Nestlé Golden Chefs has supported over 7,500 chefs across Australia and New Zealand in advancing their culinary careers.
