How often do you get to a chance to speak with a handsome guy who can cook? Okay, aside from my hubby of course. But when you’re offered a little time with Chef David Rocco I know you would RUN too! (Focus…honey, focus!!!). He’s one of the celebrity chefs along side others like Giada de Laurentiis, Mark McEwan and others that will be participating in the very heated, and very fun, Chef’s Challenge: The Ultimate Battle for a Cure …and you can attend this event too!
What is it? The Chef’s Challenge: The Ultimate Battle for a Cure is an annual fundraiser in support of Mount Sinai Hospital. Since it began in 2010, it has attracted international chefs such as Gordon Ramsay and Bobby Flay. The event has raised over $3 million for care and research in women’s cancers for the hospital. The challenge encourages Canadians to register and raise funds. Each of the top 50 fundraisers earns a chance to compete on stage alongside celebrities and notable chefs.
You will want to visit the official website for more information on how you can register to fundraise, attend and possibly even get cooking at this event on February 8th in Toronto! www.chefschallengeforacure.com
As we’re counting down the days to the event, I had the chance to ask Chef David Rocco about how he’s getting ready for the show down!
You’ll be leading a team of chefs (some novice) in the upcoming Chef’s Challenge. What should your team expect at this event?
It’s a ton of fun! This will be my fourth Chef’s Challenge and, win or lose, we always have a blast. We work like a team to cook and prepare dishes, it’s all under pressure and sometimes it can get pretty competitive.
What’s the secret to a well-run kitchen?
Organization and communication. We have to have a plan and be organized as to how we’ll execute it. Communication is important so everyone know what they have to do, knows their responsibilities, and is available to help out their team members if they are stuck.
What do you want your team to know about you, as a chef?
I like to have fun, but when we’re cooking, it’s all about focus and intensity and making sure the dishes turn out beautifully.
Everyone has a job in the kitchen…does your family get involved in your own kitchen?
For the most part, but it’s not a democracy! There can be only be one executive chef 😉
Food brings everyone together– Italians are known for bringing family and friends together, what’s a typical family meal like for you and yours?
A lot of yelling and a lot of laughter with a dash of dysfunction, but the food is what unites us all.
What do you want to tell the other teams competing against yours?
In previous years, Team Rocco has always had the most fun, so apologies to the other teams in advance.
Who do you think will be your fiercest competition?
Probably McEwan — He’s a great chef. He’s always got his game face on, and it scares me a little.
Um… can you say something in Italian?
Buona fortuna a tutti!
SIGH!!!!!! Grazie!
Okay, wouldn’t it be cool to meet and cook with celebrity chefs like Giada De Laurentiis and David Rocco? For more info visit www.chefschallengeforacure.com
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