Zest Quest Asia 2024 opens for entries

Zest Quest Asia 2024 has opened for submissions, with entries to close on 8 December.

The competition was founded by Cyrus and Pervin Todiwala in 2013 alongside the Master Chefs of Great Britian with the aim of elevating the profile of Asian cuisine.

The prize for last year’s winners from the University of West London was a week in Bangkok, where they visited local markets and learned the techniques behind ‘royal Thai cuisine’ at the five-star Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel.

Entrants are required to hold permanent residency in the UK to ensure the legacy of Asian cuisine remains there.

At the competition, candidates will be tasked with a live cook-off and a face-to-face presentation on 26-27 February 2024.

Cyrus Todiwala said: “I have always said that Zest Quest Asia is the competition for the most talented and ambitious student chefs. Pervin and I have seen how incrementally through the years the competition has made inroads. More and more colleges seem to be encouraging their students and tutors to take Asian cuisine seriously.

“I would call on all colleges to give their students the opportunity to experience the excitement of preparing and cooking of Asian food. Asian ingredients that can be used in Asian cooking are more popular than ever. You have so much to gain.”

Finalists will be announced on 4 January 2024.

Contact Cora Strachan on cmsevents@btinternet.com for more information.