“Oman Chef” Concludes Its Fifth Edition Crowning Winners and Celebrating Omani Culinary Talent

The curtain has fallen on the fifth edition of the “Oman Chef” competition, marking a triumphant journey of culinary artistry and spirited competition among elite professional and talented chefs from across Oman’s governorates. Organised by Oman Tourism College with the backing of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and the Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN Group), this celebrated event shines a spotlight on the rich diversity of authentic Omani cuisine, reimagined with innovative techniques that fuse tradition with modernity and encourages the Oman talents as well as nurturing and developing the potential of Omani talents in the culinary arts.”

 

The grand finale, attended by distinguished guests and key stakeholders from the tourism and food sectors, crowned its winners in a display of exceptional talent. Chef Masooma Al Balushi secured first place, followed by Chef Kalthoom Al Mamari in second place and Chef Nooh Al Ghatrifi in third, all lauded for their creative interpretations of traditional Omani dishes, crafted with locally sourced ingredients that honour the nation’s cultural heritage.

 

Reflecting on her victory, Chef Masooma Al Balushi stated, “Participating in ‘Oman Chef’ has been an incredible honour. This competition provided a unique platform to showcase our skills and engage with some of the most creative chefs in Oman. Initiatives like these are vital in enhancing and advancing Omani cuisine by showcasing its unique ingredients, while creating opportunities for young chefs to excel and proudly carve their path in the tourism and hospitality industry.”

 

Dr. Hamad bin Mohammed Al Mahrizi, Dean of Oman Tourism College, commended the participants for their ingenuity, stating, “We are immensely proud of the creativity and excellence demonstrated in this edition of ‘Oman Chef.’ Omani chefs have shown their ability to redefine traditional cuisine, contributing significantly to Oman’s reputation as a premier culinary destination.”

 

Ms. Amira Iqbal Al Lawati, Director General of Tourism Development at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, applauded the competition’s success, remarking, “The ‘Oman Chef’ competition serves as a shining example of how we can nurture Omani talent in culinary arts complementing the Ministry’s efforts in promoting  gastronomy and culinary arts tourism as one of the major tourism experiences of Oman. We remain committed to supporting such initiatives that celebrate our heritage and refine local expertise.”

 

Ms. Badriya Abdulrahman Al Siyabi, Director of Sustainability and Local Content at OMRAN Group, echoed these sentiments, adding, “Supporting ‘Oman Chef’ aligns with our mission to empower Omani talent and promote sustainability within the tourism sector. This initiative embodies the essence of Oman’s rich cultural heritage, harmonising authenticity with innovation and unlocking boundless opportunities for aspiring chefs. Oman has so much to offer to the world, and through platforms like this, we aim to showcase our nation’s unique flavours while opening endless horizons for culinary exploration and global recognition and supporting the aspiring talents in the tourism and hospitality industry.”

 

This year’s competition featured over 50 participants who competed in three rounds of creative challenges, each focused on reinterpreting traditional Omani dishes with a modern twist. The event successfully achieved its objectives of fostering innovation and advocating for sustainable culinary practices.

 

The competition concluded with a heartfelt recognition of all participants for their remarkable efforts. OMRAN Group reaffirmed its dedication to supporting initiatives that empower Omani youth and nurture national talent. Organisers expressed their ambition to build on this momentum in future editions, further elevating Omani cuisine on local and global stages and offering culinary experiences that celebrate the essence of Oman’s cultural legacy.

 

    

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