West Belfast-based chef Kerry Roper is set to raise the temperature of the Great British Menu as she battles it out for the chance to represent Northern Ireland in the new series.
Kerry Roper, Executive Chef at Stix & Stones, will compete against three of Northern Ireland’s finest chefs in series 18 to earn a place at the show’s prestigious final banquet.
Kerry will showcase her culinary expertise with an array of original, creative, and unique dishes aimed at capturing the imagination of the show’s judging panel of Michelin-starred chef, Tom Kerridge; restaurateur, Nisha Katona; comedian and food podcast broadcaster, Ed Gamble, and a weekly guest judge.
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Originally from London, she couldn’t imagine representing any other region as she has "lived and loved Northern Ireland for the past 12 years" and sees it as the only place she calls home.
In the NI heat, local chefs will take inspiration from the best of British animation and illustration when creating their dishes, from cartoons to video games, as the show celebrates Paddington Bear's 65th birthday.
Kerry’s passion for cookery stemmed from watching and learning from her peers in kitchens across the province and she attributes her success to her experience working with excellent local talent.
Speaking ahead of her appearance, she said: “I’m delighted to have been asked to compete in this prestigious competition. This year’s theme of British animation is very exciting. It has given me the perfect platform to showcase my culinary creations.
"It would be a tremendous achievement to make the banquet, but I have my work cut out for me.
"Going up against the extremely talented Gemma Austin, John Hollywood, and Matt Jordan is no easy task, and we will all be at our very best as we try to impress the judging panel to earn that coveted spot in the finale."
Kerry and the three other Northern Ireland chefs will enter The kitchen on Tuesday 14 March 2023 at 8pm, on BBC Two & iPlayer
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