Imagine the challenge in being presented with a mystery basket, containing seasonal ingredients, to use in the design and preparation of a three-course meal for four people, all within four hours. Such is the challenge given young cooks competing in the Jeunes Commis RotisseursCompetition.

The Jeunes Commis (Young Chefs) Competition was first organized in 1977 in Switzerland to support and promote future young chefs by giving them the opportunity to develop and demonstrate their skills. Competitions are held at regional, national and international levels in countries around the world.

A candidate must be nominated by their employer, who must be a member of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, and accepted by the Competition Committee. Members of local bailliages who are proprietors, managers, or chefs at Chaîne affiliated restaurants, hotels, clubs and conference centres, are asked to propose candidates, who complete and submit application forms to a Regional oordinator. Contestants are then selected from the group of applicants.

At the appointed time, each contestant is given an identical, previously unidentified "market basket" of ingredients. From the ingredients in this basket the contestant must compose and execute a 3-course menu (first course, main course, and dessert) for four people. The written menu must be completed within the first half-hour, with 3½ hours allowed for preparation.

Experienced professionals and non-professionals, preferably Chaîne members, are selected to serve as judges. A candidate's sponsor may not serve as a udge. To ensure complete secrecy and objectivity, contestants are identified by number only rather than by name. Dishes prepared by the contestants are judged on taste, presentation and originality. In addition, scores are given for cleanliness and organization in the kitchen.

The competition is open to young cooks having no more than five years of professional cooking experience, culinary schooling not included. A candidate must be a citizen of the country they are representing. A candidate may be no more than 27 years of age on the date of the of the International Competition. Once accepted, a candidate must furnish proof of age (Birth Certificate, Passport or Driver's License).The act of participating in the Competition at any level imposes upon the competitor the acceptance and respect of the rules.

Contestants may compete up to 3 times at Chaîne Regional Young Commis Competitions. Contestants at National competitions may compete twice and Contestants at International Competition only once. Past contestants may compete only if they are eligible under the age and experience ruling.

The first place winners of all Regional Competitions are qualified to participate in the National Final. The winner of the national final will compete in the International Competition.

2010 Jeunes Commis Rôtisseurs National Competition

This years National finals will be held on 3rd July at the the Challenger TAFE in Brisbane QLD.

For more details please contact Ralf Brügger Conseiller Culinaire National d'Australie or your local Vice-Conseiller Culinaire.