Heavyweight kosher caterers Michael Rose and Jason Millan sent their head chefs into battle yesterday in one of the most eagerly-anticipated culinary clashes of the decade. ‘Let’s Get Cookin’, Norwood’s answer to 'Ready Steady Cook' pitted these two giants of the kosher food scene against each other in an attempt to be crowned unofficial kings of Jewish cuisine. The event, held at the Arts Depot in Finchley on Wednesday 4 July 2007, was attended by around 115 ladies and raised £11,000 for Norwood, the UK’s leading Jewish charity for children and families.
The day began with a drinks and canapés reception before everyone made their way to the studio theatre for the main event. Chefs Michele Shaba (Jason Millan) and Mark Wright (Michael Rose) were presented with a variety of ingredients and given the task of creating two mouth-watering courses in just 30 minutes, ably assisted by two lucky audience members. Before long, the room was filled with the intoxicating aroma of dishes such as duck with a cherry compote and stuffed chicken with butternut squash soup. Once time was up and the tasting was completed, the audience voted for their favourite menu – the final result was an honourable draw.
Compere David Ereira, Norwood’s Deputy Chairman, gave audience members the opportunity to pose questions to the experts throughout the event, and several professional cooking tips were shared. A raffle rounded off the day, with two sisters walking off with an amazing top prize – celebrity chef Gino D'Campo will cook a meal for them and six guests in their own home! The event, organised by Norwood’s Food and Thought Committee was sponsored by Michael Rose Banqueting, Jason Millan and Louis Mann & Son.
Speaking at the event, Michael Rose said: “Norwood carries out probably the greatest work in the community, so I am extremely happy to support them.” Jason Millan said: “It’s great to be involved with such a fun event and to help raise a lot of money for Norwood."
Michelle Lassman, Norwood Community Fundraiser, was delighted with the event. She said: “I’d like to thank our sponsors, our chefs and our guests for making this such a special day. We have raised a fantastic amount of money that will go directly towards supporting children and families coping with disabilities or facing social difficulties”. Dalia Kramer, from Finchley, added: “This original, creative idea has been fantastically executed by both the chefs and the organisers. I’ve had a wonderful day.”
For further information please contact David Wosner, Public Relations Officer at Norwood on 020 8420 6942 or email david.wosner@norwood.org.uk
