Chef Rob Hooper has spread Christmas cheer at this year's Woolworth's Christmas Table, raising funds for those in need.
Every year, The Woolworths Christmas Table brings together the flavours, flair and festive feeling of a true Kiwi Christmas.
The three-night pop-up event earlier this month celebrated the staples of a traditional New Zealand Christmas, including glazed ham, summer salads and, of course, pavlova.
At the helm was acclaimed Chef Rob Hooper, who demonstrated how attendees could easily recreate the menu at home.
Over his career, Chef Hooper has enjoyed working in some unique parts of New Zealand since he arrived from the UK. However, his time in Auckland has introduced him and his team to some of the most special events and locations.
As the Head Chef at Great Catering, Chef Hooper has been instrumental in creating memorable experiences with bespoke party design and menus. During his time collaborating with Woolworths, he was grateful for the opportunity to work with a range of suppliers and producers, along with designing unique menus based on the brief.
Chef Hooper said that it was great to be able to lend a hand and showcase a designed menu using Woolworths products.
“These are accessible to all, however, sometimes it requires a point in the right direction to produce a whole designed menu. We have ensured this menu can be achieved by a normal household with all cooking abilities,” he said.
“We really enjoy using seasonal produce and flavour combinations to elevate a family Christmas menu.”
Chef Hooper and his team were provided with a range of seasonal produce and a brief to write an elevated Christmas menu that an ordinary household could prepare.
He used simple techniques, but also introduced bold, complementary flavour combinations which worked individually and collectively throughout the entire menu. He said it was important to design a menu from start to finish that alleviated the pressure on Christmas Day, ensuring some items could be prepared in advance.
Chef Hooper hoped that all attendees enjoyed the showcase, picked up some helpful cooking techniques, and felt confident to recreate the menu themselves at home.
“Great food does not need to be complicated, and a wonderful family Christmas menu can all be achieved from a trip to the supermarket.”
The Woolworths Christmas Table raised funds for The Salvation Army Christmas Appeal.
