Kendal chef makes his mark at Young Chef County Heat

Alongside five other 18-25 year old finalists, he took to the challenge of cooking up a winning three course meal for two using local North West produce costing up to £25, followed by dishing up goat's cheese for his dessert with local dairy producer Thornby Moor.

Up against a record number of entries this year, the teenager from Park Avenue, Kendal, said he was over the moon and absolutely raring to go for the title against county winners from Merseyside, Cheshire, Greater Manchester and Lancashire in May's final.

"I've always had a passion for food and cooked with mum from a very young age, so working with food just comes naturally to me. I am inspired by the likes of renowned chefs Thomas Keller and Ferran Adria and my aspiration is to work in a Michelin starred restaurant."

He continued: "Winning Young Chef, which gives chefs like myself the chance to demonstrate their skills and understanding of food and, unlike other competitions, have complete freedom in choosing menus and presentation, would hopefully set me on track to cooking in this league very soon."

The judging panel included competition organiser and British Masterchef Brian Mellor (Chef 'n' Farmer, Wirral), restaurateur Matt Nugent (Heathcotes restaurants) and Nigel Crane, chef and managing director of competition sponsor, Essential Cuisine, based in Cheshire.

Frickel goes on to explain why he used certain ingredients in his winning menu: "My menu featured a wide range of Cumbrian produce, which is at its best when in season. The style of this menu reflects my cooking style, featuring both complex and simple cooking methods and processes to complement the great flavours of the produce.

"I am passionate about local produce, the quality and range, and really enjoy cooking with it at the hotel. This is where it's important to get to know your suppliers."

North West Young Chef aims to give chefs the opportunity to increase their chances of achieving long term goals, demonstrate skills to a professional audience and get invaluable feedback.

Judge Nigel Crane from Essential Cuisine said: "It not only gives chefs the chance to experience the thrill of competing, but the chance to learn from peers and give potential employers something to think about when they look at a CV. It's a competitive industry and accolades such as this play a big part in shaping an aspiring chef's future. We wish Martin luck in the final."

Words: Maria Bracken

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