Catering students had to use their creativity to cook up a storm as part of an Army Reserve ‘Ration Pack Challenge’.
The Professional Cookery students at Blackburn College were challenged with creating two covers of a starter, main and dessert in two hours, using the ingredients in a ration pack box which soldiers eat when training or on operations.
The event was run by 167 catering Support Regiment, a specalised Reserve Army Unit.
They are the only regiment within the British Army who are all trained chefs, who cater for the soldiers of the regular and Reserve Army, when called upon.
The students were split into competing teams and under the watchful eye of Lance Corporal Barry Sharpe and Sergeant Peter McAlindon they were asked to plan and design a three-course meal, using as many of the field rations as possible, supplemented with some fresh items.
Chefs from the regiment were on hand to support the students and gave feedback on the quality of their dishes and where improvements could be made.
They were provided with flour, eggs, potatoes, mixed vegetables, cooking chocolate, bread and cream.
The food was then judged by college staff and members of the Army Reserves, and feedback given to all the students.
Sgt Peter McAlindon said: “All the students became really involved in this challenge; it was amazing to watch them working under pressure.
QI hope the visit will inspire some of the students to consider a role with the Army when they've completed their qualification.”
Lecturer in hospitality, Nick Hatch, said: “The students really embraced the event after a little bit of initial apprehension about the timing and ingredient constraints.
"I think the students were all surprised with how much they made from so few ingredients.”
Student Adam McCombs who is studying Level 2 Professional Cookery at Blackburn College said: “I loved every bit of it, especially the praise and the teamwork, I won the award for dessert of the day, which really capped it off. I am now seriously thinking of joining the Army.”
Blackburn College Principal and Chief Executive Dr Fazal Dad said: “Thanks goes to The Army Reserves 167 Catering Support Regiment for taking the time out to speak to our students and introduce them to their ‘Ration Pack Challenge’.
“This was a fantastic opportunity for our students, with the challenge testing their skills in teamwork, communication and timekeeping as they worked together to decide on their menus and produce their chosen dishes within the given time."
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