The Combined Services Culinary Arts Team (CSCAT) was formed in 1997 to represent the UK Armed Forces in world class international and national culinary events. CSCAT push the boundaries of culinary skills in order to compete against nations from around the globe. The Worshipful Company of Cooks of London is proud to support CSCAT and have been a sponsor for many years. The grant and liaison is managed by the Assistance of Cookery Team and recently our funding has been used to offset the cost of specialist training courses. Herewith the latest update from the Combined Services Culinary Arts Team.
“It has been a busy and productive period for CSCAT, particularly during the two-week intensive workshop held at Worthy Down in August. This marked the first practical workshop since the team was reselected at the beginning of the year, serving as the footings for preparations for the Culinary World Cup in November 2026.
During this workshop, the focus was on refining dishes that will form the foundation of competition efforts. Chefs participated in a series of skills workshops, covering butchery and fish filleting, intricate chocolate work, the construction of platter pieces for cold displays, glazing and garnishing, and plating skills. This ensured that every aspect of presentation is polished to the highest standard, with flair, imagination, and originality.
The team displayed their creations at the end of the workshop, allowing for a collective decision on which concepts will move forward for further development in subsequent workshops.
Skills gaps were identified, and chefs will attend specialised skills workshops and classes, supported by the Worshipful Company of Cooks of London. Links are also being establishing with Michelin starred restaurants, where selected team members will have the opportunity to undertake short placements. These placements are designed to deepen their experience in restaurant-style cooking and enhance their ability to manage the pass during high-pressure services.
CSCAT is planning to send a contingent of team members to compete in the United States Military Joint Culinary Training Exercise in Virginia in February 2025. Several CSCAT chefs also plan to compete at ScotHot in late February 2025 and HRC show in March 2025. Consideration has been given to entering one of CSCAT junior chefs in the prestigious Roux Scholarship, which would be an exciting opportunity to showcase the talent within their ranks.”
September 2024.
