MasterChef Korea won by Sydney hospitality student
This is the story of South Korean born Gwangho Choi — known by his nickname, Sid — and his journey of culinary success.
Raised in a city known for its diverse cuisine and thriving youth and arts culture, Choi dreamt about one day opening his own restaurant where he could serve authentic family recipes with a modern twist.
Four years ago, Sid moved to Killara, enrolling in a Commercial Cookery course at Sydney’s William Blue College of Hospitality Management. During his studies, he fell in love with the Australian way of life and in particular — our obsession with reality cooking shows.
After graduating, he returned to Korea where he was inspired to enter the local version of MasterChef, going on to beat 7000 contestants to win the 2014 title and a $300,000 cash prize.
“Winning MasterChef Korea was a very exciting time for me. I still have to pinch myself sometimes,” he said.
“I just love to cook and to see people eating my food. Cooking really is my passion.”
Choi wowed the judges with a unique presentation to his final challenge, serving several dishes as the main course including beef, pen shell and abalone with pickled salad and rice with duck soup and Neungi mushroom.
“(In Korea) we don’t have the concept of three-course meal,” he said. “That is why I served the entree and main at the same time. Finally, I made Sujeonggwa and Hongsi sorbet with marron cake and Gangjeong.”
He has now returned back to Australia and re-enrolled in a Bachelor of Business in Hospitality Management.
“Hospitality can be very demanding. Many people who want to be chefs are looking at the glamorous side of the lifestyle, and some don’t understand what is involved to get there,” he said. “In my view, it’s very important to be patient, to be well-trained and to continue learning.”
When he’s not busy in the kitchen, Choi can often be spotted signing autographs and taking fan selfies at his favourite north shore restaurants.
“It’s very multicultural here and there’s so much diversity, especially in the food. For example, sometimes when I’m walking in Chatswood I feel like I’m in Korea. How wonderful is that?”
Source: News Local, Cassandra Briedis, 7th August 2015
Originally published as: MasterChef Korea won by Sydney hospitality student
