Taking the “OUCH” out of fish and chips!- Oh my cod I can’t believe it!

This competition does exactly what it says on the tin- a cookery competition that gives students the opportunity to create tasty, healthy, honest, flavoursome and affordable restaurant meals at home. From the beginning we were well looked after by all the assistants in St Angela’s College Sligo in a bright and welcoming environment.  Although a very busy kitchen with many pots and pans rattling, all students were put at ease and were offered fantastic support.  Students were assigned a workstation where the magic happened. After 90 minutes of chopping, dicing, blending, stirring, roasting, frying and presenting, the creative and healthy dishes were finished.

 

Simone O’ Toole a 5th year student in St. Dominic’s Ballyfermot has really taking the “ouch” out of our traditional fish and chips. She altered the traditional greasy, highly saturated fat, fish and chips option for a low fat, increased fibre and an overall healthier alternative. She also changed the traditional fries to a healthier sweet potato option with a surprise! Her tartar sauce has caught her peers’ attention as it contains no mayonnaise as she used natural yoghurt as an alternative.

Cod is a good source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids which is important to lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Cod is an excellent source of vitamin B12, high in protein, low in fat and can be easily digested. Simone purchased all her ingredients locally in Ballyfermot and is a firm believer in “spend it here, keep it here”.

All in all it was a wonderful experience to be part of this cookery competition and now  knowing the outstanding standard of young people’s knowledge, skills and creativity, Simone and many more students here in St Dominic’s Secondary School, will try again and improve further for future competitions.  After all the secret ingredient is in the participation!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You don’t have to cook fancy or complicated masterpieces all you need is good food from fresh ingredients and to wear your smile with confidence!