Beautiful Vietnam
Ambassadors to compete in a cook-off
  • | dtinews.vn | March 31, 2011 10:38 AM

Nine ambassadors stationed in Hanoi will attend a cooking contest in the city on April 2 with their nations’ special dishes.

Pakistan Ambassador (left), Brazilian Ambassador (right) and Belgian Ambassador (second from right) congratulated German Ambassador for wining the first prize last year

The Ambassadors’ Cooking Contest, to be held at Mediterraneo Rastaurant No. 23, Nha Tho Street, promises an exciting and unique atmosphere.

Initiated by former Italian Ambassador Andrea Perugini, the first Ambassadors’ Cooking Contest was held in 2010, attracting six contestants from the embassies of Belgium, Brazil, Germany, Italy, Pakistan and Sweden.

This year, Mr Perugini, has ended his term and left the country. But eight other ambassadors will still take part, including those from Argentina, Austria, Belgium, Italy, Pakistan, South Africa, Spain and Venezuela.

Shahid M.G.Kiani, Pakistani Ambassador, one of key members in the contest’s organising board, said the event is aimed to help foreigners working in Vietnam to understand more about the country.

Last year’s contest attracted VND50 million (USD2,392) in ticket sales and raffles. The money was contributed to support disadvantaged children. This year’s contest is expected to pull in at least VND100 million (USD4,784) to assist Little Tigers, a charity fund specialising in helping Vietnamese disabled children.

The contest is also a chance for cultural exchange. Entry price will be VND500,000 (USD23.92) per person, and VND1 million (USD47.84) for raffle tickets. Visitors not only help disadvantaged children but also have a chance to taste the foods of different nations.

Shahid M.G.Kiani added, unlike last year where competitors are allowed to do some preparation at home, but all have to bring their own ingredients, preparing them in front of the judges and visitors.

The examining board includes cooks of Hanoi’s leading hotels. Each ambassador must prepare 30 servings for the board members and viewers. The restaurant will provide more food and drink for visitors, including three free drinks included with the entry ticket. The event will start at 7pm.

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