Mary Palecek, Sous Chef at
Woodside in Warwickshire, has been named Young Conference Centre Chef of the Year at a prestigious global cooking competition in America.
Mary scooped the Junior title at the Global Copper Skillet Competition run by IACC in Los Angeles on Tuesday 4th April.
Already UK and European Champion, Mary, aged 25, represented Europe to compete against other IACC champions from the US and Australia Asia Pacific in a timed cook off.
Each chef was presented with basic pantry items along with a ‘
mystery basket’ of proteins and other fresh, dairy and grocery items. They were given 30 minutes to prepare and produce their dishes, before showcasing to a panel of judges.
Mary wowed the judges with her dish of pan fried sirloin steak, sautéed courgette and aubergine, poached sea bass with tomato coriander salsa, heritage carrots and caramelised shallots.
IACC is the world’s leading association of dedicated conference venues and the popular Copper Skillet Competition is part of its commitment to sustaining the highest global standards of customer service and facilities, highlighting the artistry and skill of the best chefs from IACC member conference venues around the world.
Speaking about her success, Mary said:
“It was a fantastic experience to represent Europe in such a prestigious competition. I’m honoured to have won the Global title, and still in shock! This is a real highlight of my career.”