…NIHOTOUR, Spanish Embassy Nigeria, Trains Over 20 Chefs
To foster culinary cultural exchange between Nigerians and Spaniards, as well as impact the Nigerian hospitality industry, over 20 chefs have been trained in the skills of preparing Spanish cuisine at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, recently.
The programme which was organised by the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) in collaboration with the Embassy of Spain in Nigeria was tagged, “Training for Chefs and Culinary Schools in Nigeria”.
The Spanish professional Chef Alex Marugan who was the chief instructor for the training session guided the participants through the preparation of Spanish dishes such as Croquetas, Salpicón, Torrija, Pescado en salsa verde, and Arroz meloso con pato.
While noting that the training is an opportunity to share food culture between Nigerians and the Spanish, Chef Marugan said, “I have taken the students through the process of the preparation of some traditional Spanish dishes. I’m happy that they showed a lot of interest in learning, through their participation in the class.”
One of the trainees, Temitope Oladosu, said that the training session had positioned her to be able to work at intercontinental hotels. “I have been exposed to the reason why a metal spoon should not be used with a metal pot. Now, I know that metallic food poisoning can occur when a metal spoon is used with a metal pot while cooking.
So, it is always advisable to use a wooden spoon when a metal pot is used. I have also learnt a lot about hygiene while cooking,” she said. Another beneficiary, Ayorinde Olupinla, said he has learnt how to prepare different types of Spanish fish sauces without using spices.
For Funmi Olatuyi, the training is a beautiful experience and exposure. “I will remain eternally grateful to NIHOTOUR for this training. I look forward to benefiting from more training that would involve other nations ’cuisines.”
