Jongga Kimchi Cook Off Final 2024

Ten finalists were challenged to develop innovative kimchi-based recipes and cook these dishes in one of the institute’s state of the art kitchens. The version of kimchi people may be most familiar with is made using cabbage, but there are over 20 types with ingredients varying to reflect the different tastes, seasons and regions of Korea. Kimchi can be combined into a huge range of dishes, so entrants were challenged to design a delicious and unique new kimchi dish.

Overseen in the kitchen by Chef Emil Minev, Culinary Arts Director for Le Cordon Bleu London, competitors had an hour and a half to complete their dishes. Chef Emil and the judging panel, which included representatives from Jongga and AMA, then evaluated each entry based on taste, presentation, creativity, and originality.

The winners were announced at an awards reception where the finalists and guests enjoyed drinks and canapes created by Le Cordon Bleu chefs.

1st Place: Potato Kimchi Croquette by Haydon Wong

2nd place: Harmony in Fusion: Kimchi Embrace of “Gołąbki” by Martyna Czerniejewska

3rd place: Solyanka With Kimchi by Izabela Kawecka

Jongga Prize: Kimchi Semifreddo with Pineapple Salsa, Kimchi Crumb & Smoked Pancetta by Chan Wing-Lee

All the finalists received a generous gift from Jongga for taking part, and the four main prize winners received cash prizes.

If you'd like to learn the skills it takes to develop your own recipes, browse our programmes page and start your culinary journey today.