Care home chefs are being challenged to create a roast with a flavoursome twist to celebrate British Roast Dinner Week 2013, which runs from 30 September 30th to 6 October 6th.
NACC chair Karen Oliver and Age UK’s marketing and communications manager, Elizabeth Whiddett, will join the panel of judges searching for the care home roast which succeeds in making mealtimes the highlight of residents’ days.
Oliver said: “At the NACC we’re passionate about improving food nutrition and hydration practices. This competition puts nutrition at the top of the agenda and succeeds in making meal times the highlight of residents’ day.”
Whiddett said: “The roast dinner was once the meal of the week when everyone sat together and enjoyed a wholesome, flavoursome meal.
“It’s still one of the nation’s favourite meals and we’re looking forward to judging the competition because it highlights the importance of delicious food in care homes.
“For some residents it’s the little things that make a big difference, so putting the pride back into roast dinners is something we fully support.”
To enter the competition, which is sponsored by Knorr Gravy and supported by Colman’s, care caterers need to put on two different roasts ‘with a twist’ for their residents during British Roast Dinner Week.
They are then asked to send in an explanation about what was special about each one and ask residents which they preferred and why.
Finally, they should give their winning roast dinner a delicious name and description and, if possible, take a picture and send it in.
Paul Wright, business development chef at Unilever Food Solutions, says: “There’s lots of twists you could add to make sure your roast dinner stands out. Firstly, give your roast a creative name and description, as this is the first thing the judges will look at.
“Secondly, think about the colours, textures and overall flavour delivery as this can bring your dish to life. If it looks attractive then your residents are more likely to enjoy it.
“Thirdly, don’t make your portion sizes too big. A big plateful can sometimes put people off their food, so think about quantities.
“Also, don’t forget the gravy. Did you know that 90% of consumers agree that gravy is the most important part of a roast? Be sure to add extra flavour to boost your residents’ senses, but try not to overload with salt.”
Judging takes place on October 21st, with the winners announced three days later on October 24th.
One care home will take the Britain’s Best Care Home Roast title and receive a hamper of Knorr and Colman’s goodies, a certificate and a giant board game for the residents.
Three runners up will win five tubs of Knorr Gravy, a certificate and a Colman’s kit (oven glove and apron) and a Dove kit for the residents.
Seven finalists will also walk away with a Colman’s kit (oven glove and apron) and certificate.
E-mail entries to donna@williammurray.co.uk by October 18th, or post them to Donna White at William Murray Communications, Cygnet House, 12-14 Sydenham Road, Croydon, CR0 2EE.