Birmingham chef crowned BCF Young Chef of the Year

Helen Evans from Birmingham, who works under Michelin-starred Andreas Antona at the Simpsons Restaurant in Edgbaston, has been crowned British Culinary Federation (BCF) Young Chef of the Year 2009 at Monday night's ceremony at Birmingham's University College.

The 22-year-old, who has never competed before and was the only female finalist, said she couldn't believe it when her name was called. "I listened as they announced third and then second place, and thought at that point I had no chance," she said. "I was shocked but ecstatic to win. It was also really great that my mum was here to see me win such a prestigious award."

A total of 16 finalists aged 23 years old or under working in a UK restaurant or still training at college took part in the cook off at University College's Molteni kitchens.

They had to create a three course meal for two people, incorporating a fish starter using bream, main course using British pork and a sweet using pears and chocolate.

Evan's winning menu comprised sea bream with potato scales, spinach and caviar sauce, followed by pork cutlet, black pudding, mustard oils with pomme puree, apple and confit of cabbage with marjoram and caper sauce, and pear, chocolate and chestnut mille fieulle.

Her winning prize consisted of The David Bache Trophy, a cheque for £250, trip to Luxembourg, an industry stage, personalised chef's jacket, framed certificate and commemorative plate from Villeroy & Boch.

The annual competition is sponsored by Electrolux Professional and supported by Villeroy & Boch.

Words: Maria Bracken

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