TEENAGER Amina Bendadjal cooked up a storm for River Cafe owner Ruth Rogers and was crowned Hammersmith and Fulham's Young Chef of the Year.
Amina, 14, wowed judges including Ms Rogers and Tapas Revolution's Omar Alliboy with her menu of Baked Salmon, Mediterranean rice, sundried tomatoes and yoghurt dressing, followed by a chocolate fondant with homemade ice cream - all on a budget of just £6.50.
The Fulham Cross Girls' School pupil beat four other contestants to the annual prize, which was held at Ealing, Hammersmith and West London College.
She said: “It’s still sinking in that I won. My parents have been big influence on my choice of dish. I'm in the first year of GCSE food technology and my school has been very supportive. It's been a good experience and hopefully will lead to lots of opportunities for a future career."
As a reward, Amina was presented with a £150 in vouchers to spend at Westfield and a glass trophy by mayor Belinda Donovan deputy council leader Greg Smith Greg Smith, who said: “All the contestants made some incredible food and it goes to show that a little can go a long way. Amina’s meal really did stand out and it obviously meant a lot to her to win.
"These young people are talented cooks and should all be very proud of themselves.”
