Saudi culinary team shines in Embassy Chef Challenge in US

The Saudi Embassy in the US won second place in the People’s Choice category at the Embassy Chef Challenge held recently at Union Station in Washington, D.C.

The embassy was represented by a team of talented young nationals specializing in the culinary arts, who presented signature dishes such as jareesh, date cake, pistachio cake, truffles, and authentic Saudi coffee.

The embassy’s representative, chef Bandar Al-Hanaki, demonstrated the preparation process for these delicacies.

The Saudi ardah, a traditional dance, was another highlight of the event and drew enthusiastic applause from attendees.

The competition, celebrating its 15th year, featured 40 countries aiming to advance culinary diplomacy, offering Washington’s food enthusiasts the chance to savor dishes typically reserved only for embassy guests.

Chefs competed to win the coveted People’s Choice Award, chosen by guests’ votes, as well as the Judges’ Choice Award, selected by a panel of influential members of the cultural and culinary communities.

Chefs Damian Leach and Ann-Marie Leach, representing the Embassy of Barbados, took first place with their curry lamb and breadfruit cou-cou in the People’s Choice category.