Talented young chef Francesca Leyshon has scooped third prize in a national cooking competition.
Francesca, a pupil at Harrogate Ladies College, was awarded the prize by TV chef James Martin, after beating hundreds of competitors to make it through to the Red Tractor beef and lamb Mmmake it with Mince Challenge 2011 North East regional heats.
Hundreds of entries were received for the competition for 11 to 16-year-olds, and six were selected for each of the regional cook-off events, which were judged by James.
Contestants had one hour to prepare, cook and plate up their own original recipe featuring beef or lamb mince. They were also asked to supply a cooking method, time plan and cost breakdown within a budget of under £10.
James said: “The standard of entries this year was extremely high and Francesca has done exceptionally well to achieve third place. Her recipe was innovative, nutritious and well presented, but most importantly, it tasted great! A big well done to everyone who took part. It was clear that everyone worked really hard.
“It is now more important than ever before to inspire young people to cook properly and this challenge is a perfect platform for them to learn about food, cooking and nutrition. I hope that Francesca’s success will encourage more young people from the local area to get cooking and try out new and different recipes.”
Francesca cooked stuffed red peppers on a bed of vegetable pilau rice. She was awarded points for originality, nutrition and presentation.
Denise Spencer-Walker, food advisor for Red Tractor beef and lamb, said: “Francesca’s enthusiasm for good food really shone through and I’m sure she will go on to achieve great culinary success in the future.”