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The Corporation

Posted: 14/04/09

A taste of Eastern Europe from Christian

An Eastern European tasting menu is being served up by graduating professional cookery chef Christian Speight on Friday 24th April at West Nottinghamshire College’s popular No 19 Brasserie.

Christian, 20, has been a student with West Nottinghamshire College since 2005 when he enrolled on his NVQ Level 1 in Professional Cookery.  He will soon be graduating from his Level 3 course which has seen him go from a young chef with very little cooking skills, to a confident individual capable of producing top-class fine dining dishes.

Christian has had recent experience working in local hotels and restaurants such as No 4 Wood Street in Mansfield, Cockliffe House Hotel near Nottingham and is now aiming to become sous chef at a gastro restaurant in Thurgarton.

Christian said: “I work really well under pressure and I simply enjoy cooking.  I love the style of Gordon Ramsey who creates simple, classical meals with a modern, interesting twist.”

“In time, I would love to travel to Australia to explore new food and cookery ideas and give my new skills even bigger challenges.”

Back in November 2008, Christian was filmed by ITV in the College Brasserie kitchens as he auditioned for the TV programme ‘Taste The Nation’ which is being televised now.  While the cameras rolled Christian was interviewed at the same time as cooking a venison dish with shallots.  Sadly, he didn’t go through to the East Midlands finals as he was deemed to be too experienced!

On 24th April, diners can enjoy Christian’s skills as he cooks a hare hot-pot for starters, pan fried turbot or veal for the main course, followed by raspberry arctic roll for dessert.

Christian adds: “I am really looking forward to my graduation event and will be proud to see my family and friends there at the Brasserie.  I have really enjoyed my time as a student at West Notts and it feels good to know I am leaving with a set of very valuable creative skills.”

To find out more and book a table at Christian’s event, please call (01623) 413629.