Honey Cooking Competition, 2023 edition

National Brand (Marque Nationale) honey, a quality product that can be used in an infinite number of ways, was once again honoured at the traditional Honey Cooking Competition held on 17 January at the EHTL.

While the concept has remained the same over the decades, namely to highlight a product with a thousand-year-old history and to promote creativity on the part of young talent, the 2023 edition brought its share of novelties.

First of all, the first female president of the Federation of Beekeepers’ Unions (FUAL), Alexandra Arendt, was present to highlight the work of professional beekeepers, as well as amateur enthusiasts.

Secondly, the competition has a new supervisor, Mr. Konstantinos Anagnostaras, who has been handed over to Mr. Laurent Antoine after twenty years of good and loyal service.

Finally, for the first time, the circle of candidates was enlarged, with the participation of a student from the Sainte-Catherine Le Mans School.

Using a list of ingredients, including winter vegetables and pork, eight participants took up the challenge of creating a menu within five hours, comprising a starter, a main course and a dessert. The result was a festival of colours, textures and flavours that drew high praise from the guests.

Finally, it was time to reveal the verdict of the four members of the jury, including Mr David Albert, the first winner of the competition 30 years ago.

Prize list 2023:

– 1st prize: Antonin Bodinier (École Sainte-Catherine Le Mans), who also produced the best dish, a feast for the eyes and the palate;
– 2nd prize: Ninon Munier (EHTL), who distinguished herself with the best starter;
– 3rd prize: Victor Thill (EHTL), whose dessert delighted the judges.

All the candidates came out of this experience grown and enriched: they faced a demanding situation and went the extra mile, which is excellent preparation for the practical exams that await them