UCB chef wins national vegan award

Six finalists battled to impress judges at the cook-off final of the Vegan Society Catering Challenge. The chefs proved that great Vegan food is a truly gourmet experience. The winner was officially announced on World Vegan Day at the beginning of November at the West Midlands Vegan Festival in Wolverhampton.

Paul Russell, a Lecturer in Hospitality and Culinary Arts Management came away with first prize and a cheque for £500. He said, "I am delighted to be able to showcase this fascinating cuisine. Designing a Vegan menu really highlights the creativity of the chef and requires considerable planning in terms of flavours, textures and nutritional value. The competition is also a great opportunity to prove to the industry that Vegan food can be just as exciting and diverse as any other cuisine."

Paul's career initially followed a traditional academic route with a business and marketing focus. However his passion for food inspired him to retrain as a chef; working at a series of award winning restaurants before deciding to return to education; this time as a lecturer.

Paul Russell's winning menu was Soupe au Pistou with a Potato Ravioli, Crisp Fried Baby Artichokes in a Poppy Seed Coating, Served on a Pea and Roasted Red Pepper Risotto, with a Cashew Aioli and Dark Chocolate Truffle Cake with Cherries.

Photo courtesy of www.flavourphotos.com.