To reach the finals, each team was asked to create a five minute video illustrating why they had chosen their particular Asian menu and offering a preview of their four-course menu entry, with the display of actual dishes an option.
The eight finalists include: Edinburgh College, Loughborough College, Milton Keynes College, New College Durham, North Hertfordshire College, The Sheffield College, University College Birmingham and University of West London.
The students, comprising three to a team, will be expected to excel in a knowledge presentation and live cook-off set for 3rd and 4th April. The winners will be announced during a gala dinner to be held at the Hilton London Wembley.
During the finals, menus will have to incorporate product from headline sponsor Lee Kum Kee, and gold sponsors Tilda Foodservice and Kerrymaid, with three cooking combinations using a Panasonic combination microwave oven also a requirement. Other gold sponsors are Tokyo College of Sushi and Washoku, London, Hilton London Wembley and Bidfood.
Cyrus Todiwala OBE DL FIH, co-founder of Zest Quest Asia, said: “In several Asian cultures, eight is considered a lucky number so we’re delighted that this year for the first time we have chosen eight finalist teams who will vie for the big prize. Which among them is going to enjoy our secret first prize destination? We will know soon enough this April, but in the meantime, there is so much to play for – and there are other great rewards in store.
“This year’s entries include dishes from Japan, Korea, Persia, Singapore, Vietnam, India and Thailand. The inspiration is palpable; may the best team win. In our uncertain world, I am heartened to see how food remains a great unifier, bridging the gap between cultures and fostering goodwill and kindness. Please join us as we celebrate the finalists and their talent and ambition at our Gala Dinner and Awards Evening on Friday, 4th April at the Hilton London Wembley.”
For more information and to book tickets, visit: https://zestquestasia.org/.