The EU Pork: The Smart Choice Campaign successfully held its first-ever masterclasses in the Philippines, bringing world-class culinary training to aspiring chefs in Metro Manila (Quezon City) on April 1st and Cebu City on April 4th. In partnership with the prestigious International School for Culinary Arts & Hotel Management (ISCAHM), the sessions provided an immersive learning experience for 46 students in Manila and 41 in Cebu, blending theory with hands-on practice.
Participants had the opportunity to work with premium EU pork, crafting both traditional Filipino dishes and classic Western recipes. The masterclasses showcased the versatility of European pork through an exclusive menu:
- Asado Glazed Pork Ribs
- Inasal Style Grilled Pork Belly
- Pork Sisig
- Gratinated Pork Steak
- Authentic Austrian Pork Schnitzel (Vienna Style)
Attendees also learned professional ham carving techniques, and how to make tapas with EU ham, including:
- Melon and ham
- Alioli and bread
- Tomatoes and bread
- Olives and honey
Beyond cooking techniques, the masterclasses provided valuable industry knowledge. Chefs gained a deeper understanding of pork trade dynamics and its global significance. Regarding key merits of EU Pork, professors highlighted EU pork’s safety, traceability, biosecurity, disease control, feed safety, quality, animal welfare, and sustainability. In addition, trainees explored different cuts, their characteristics, optimal usage, and cooking methods.
The masterclasses were met with enthusiasm, equipping chefs with new skills and insights into why EU pork is a smart choice.
