USDA Master Class featured for students of several hotel schools

Students

Preparations 

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), in collaboration with the Ceylon Hotel School Graduates Association (CHSGA) and event organiser CDC Events, facilitated the Master Class, an enlightening and interesting seasonal culinary demonstration by two celebrity chefs. The products needed for the festive cookery demonstration were flown down from the US to provide the best gastronomical experience. 

The Starter, Main Course and Dessert demonstrations took place recently in the SBMEC VIP Lounge at the BMICH for, during which the chefs demonstrated their specially chosen seasonal recipes and menus, providing a continuous stream of time-saving hints and tips on menu preparation, cooking and final presentation. Participants comprising students of several established hotel schools in Sri Lanka availed themselves of a free opportunity to learn new techniques and trends in culinary expertise.    

The US Embassy’s Chief of Economical and Commercial Affairs Susan Walker in her opening remarks said, “Each Master Class has digestible lessons that are applicable to different culinary aspects. Viewing them close-up with hands-on demonstrations make you feel one-on-one with the master chefs. Master Classes provides a behind the curtain look at how to perform culinary magic, as well as insights into the art and craft of cooking. We’re excited to be part of this experience and hope in some way to contribute to the success of the Sri Lankan hospitality industry.”

USDA Agriculture Senior Attaché Mark Wallace of the Foreign Agricultural Service based in New Delhi who was also present stated, “Exquisite food culture is shaped by local and international influences. Our demonstrations on seasonal starters, main courses and dessert gourmet cuisine featured all the qualities of exquisite ingredients with artistic and aesthetic experience to produce a beautiful end result.”

The students were treated to superb cooking skills and invited to open discussions with the experienced chefs, an opportunity not afforded to many. After the demonstration, there was an opportunity to sample the culinary masterpieces. The event also allowed for lively conversation and helped exchange viewpoints. 

The event was supported by Washington Apple Commission, and main US food and beverage importers of East West Foods Ltd., Luxury Brands Ltd., Prima Ceylon Limited., Stassen Foods Ltd. and Wickramaratne International Trading Ltd.