Limerick student is 'Super Chef' after winning culinary competition

A PUPIL from Emly was the cream of the crop at the national Super Chef cookery competition.

Louise McGrath, who attends John the Baptist Community School in Hospital, was the senior winner at the culinary event.

It took place in St Angela’s College, Sligo and was judged by a panel of experts including award-winning chef Shamzuri Hanifa of The Cottage Restaurant, Leitrim.

Super Chef is open to all students in post-primary schools on the island of Ireland and Youthreach centres. Thirty two students – 16 junior and 16 senior - from 17 different counties were selected to go forward to the 2016 final based on almost 900 entries.

The competition, which is now in its second year, is endorsed by Healthy Ireland and gives students an opportunity to create tasty, healthy and affordable meals at home or in school. Students were asked to submit their favourite healthy meal for two people.

Louise, under the supervision of her teacher Elaine O’Donnell, wowed the judges with her wholemeal upside-down salmon tart with cream cheese recipe.

Continuing the Limerick success, Bobby Hayes from Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh came second in the junior category.

Amanda McCloat, of St Angela’s College, said: “This competition aims to encourage students to display their culinary capabilities while also promoting the importance of healthy eating and giving due cognisance to budgetary requirements. We are delighted to allow students the opportunity to showcase their talents once again this year.”