01/03/2007

A college lecturer has been named as the first female winner of the Scottish Chef of the Year competition.

Pamela Fowlis, chef lecturer at Adam Smith College, in Glenrothes, triumphed at the grand final of the Knorr competition at the ScotHot hospitality show this week, beating nine other skilled chefs to win the coveted title. “I can’t believe it,” said Pamela. “I have always enjoyed competing and encouraging my students to enter competitions too but getting through to the final was a great personal achievement. I’m absolutely thrilled.”

The competition challenged the chefs to create a four-course meal for four covers in just three hours. The intense atmosphere was heightened by the presence of a live audience and the watchful eyes of a judging panel that included chef Andrew Fairlie and Federation of Chefs Scotland president, Joe Queen.

Commenting on Pamela’s win, Andrew Fairlie said: “It was a unanimous decision for first place and Pamela won hands down!” Pamela was presented with her prize of a £2,500 cheque and engraved decanter on the day.

Pamela's Winning Menu
Starter: Saute Squab Breast with Cous Cous, Pineapple and Red Pepper Chutney and Curry Vinaigrette
Intermediate: Scallop, Langoustine and Haddock Ceviche with a Fennel and Grape Salad and Mimosa Garnish
Main Course: Belly and Lightly Smoked Pan seared Fillet of Pork stuffed with Prunes, served with Carrot Puree, Mushrooms, Sugar Snap Pea, Potato Fritter and Pickled Apples
Dessert: Cointreau Crème Caramel with Spiced Bread Ice Cream, Mandarin Jelly and Basil Soup

Check back here for the winner of the Scottish Food Scholarship, which will be announced on Monday