Fire & Feast Butcher’s Festival

Stewed, roasted, cured, simmered, seared and braaied were just some of the ways cuts of lamb, beef and pork were cooked to perfection at the Fire & Feast Butcher’s Festival, presented by Crown National, at the Ticketpro Dome from 26 to 28 May.

“The event was spectacularly well supported by a really enthusiastic audience, all with varying knowledge about the meat industry,” said Sian Cullingworth, portfolio director of the design, lifestyle and retail exhibitions.

There were a number of show highlights that kept audiences entertained throughout the weekend, including the exciting National Butchers’ Challenge presented by Crown National.

“The event attracted an incredibly talented group of participants which made for exciting viewing and challenging judging,” said Caroline McCann, a leading South African butcher and organiser of the challenge.

Vying for the top prize were 10 teams consisting of six dedicated members who worked furiously during the allocated three-hour time slot, preparing and presenting succulent cuts of beef, lamb and pork. Each dish was carefully assessed by a panel of judges which included representatives from the South African Chefs Association and South African Meat Industry Council.

Judging included a careful analysis of elements such as hygiene, knife skills, marketability of the cuts, presentation and the uniqueness of the product formulation. It was also based on meat quality, best dishes and so on.

Visitors were treated to entertaining culinary demonstrations by seven leading South African chefs in the kitchen zone, coordinated by renowned South African chef, Arnold Tanzer.

In addition to cooking demonstrations, visitors took full advantage of the highly informative workshops held throughout the three-day festival. Here, industry experts showcased the latest products in the culinary world while offering useful insights into the meat industry for both traders and consumers.

The festive Kids’ Zone kept the young crowd entertained while visitors enjoyed the uplifting vibe provided by live music talent, Gus Brown Band in the Castle Beer Garden.

Several Randburg butcheries including Freshouse and the Berliner made it to the finals in their respective categories.