Categories
GCC Worldchefs Congress & Expo

Global Chefs Challenge 2026 Finalists Announced: The Worldโ€™s Top Chefs Set Their Sights on Wales

Following five Regional Semi-Finals, and with additional finalists from Finland (IKA 2024 Winner) and host nation Wales, the stage is set for a showcase of the worldโ€™s top culinary talent.

  • Five regional semi-finals, one global stage โ€“ Finalists from across Europe, Africa & Middle East, the Americas, Asia, and the Pacific Rim are preparing to compete in Wales at the Global Chefs Challenge Finals 2026.
  • Four categories of excellence โ€“ Global Chefs, Global Pastry Chefs, Global Vegan Chefs, and Global Young Chefs will showcase their skill, creativity, and innovation.
  • See the Global Chefs Challenge live in Wales โ€“ Join us in Wales to catch all the action at the Worldchefs Congress & Expo 2026.

Paris, 28 October 2025 โ€“ After an extraordinary year of competition spanning five continents, Worldchefs is proud to announce the finalists who will compete in the Global Chefs Challenge Finals 2026, taking place during the Worldchefs Congress & Expo, 16โ€“19 May 2026, at the International Convention Centre Wales in Newport.

Representing the world’s top culinary talent, they now advance to the Finals in Wales, joined by Finland, winner of IKA 2024, and host nation Wales, competing on home soil for the first time in Worldchefsโ€™ 98-year history.

A Journey Around the Culinary World

From the European Grand Prix in Rimini to the final Pacific showdown in the Cook Islands, the 2025 season celebrated the artistry, innovation, and professionalism that define Worldchefs competitions. Chefs competed across four categories: Global Chefs Challenge, Global Pastry Chefs Challenge, Global Vegan Chefs Challenge, and the Global Young Chefs Challenge (Hans Bueschkens Trophy).

โ€œWe are proud to announce the finalists for the prestigious Worldchefs Global Chefs Challenge competition! This remarkable achievement reflects not only culinary excellence but also the dedication, creativity, and professionalism that define the very best in our profession,โ€ said Rick Stephen, Worldchefs Vice President and Culinary Competition Committee Chair. โ€œAs a finalist, they will represent their country on the global stage, competing among the worldโ€™s most talented chefs. Itโ€™s a moment of pride not only for the individual, but for our entire culinary community of Worldchefs.โ€

Highlights from the 2025 Regional Semi-Finals

Europe โ€“ European Grand Prix 2025, Rimini, Italy

Over 50 chefs competed in Rimini for the first regional semi-finals of the season. Italyโ€™s Giuseppe De Vincenzo claimed top honors in the European Grand Prix.

Read more >

Africa & Middle East โ€“ Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Held during ExpoCulinaire and the Emirates Salon Culinaire, the event celebrated regional excellence. Elizabeth Puleni Taati Isai (Namibia) and Yury Evfimento (UAE) will continue to the finals in the Global Chefs category.

Read more >

Americas โ€“ Las Vegas, USA

Hosted during the ACF National Convention, the Americas Semi-Finals spotlighted dynamic performances. Derek R. Mazzocoli (USA) and Jaime Leal Cruz (Mexico) led the pack, qualifying for the finals.

Read more >

Asia โ€“ Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Featuring 51 teams from 14 countries, Asiaโ€™s semi-final shone with innovation and technical mastery. Stanton Wong Hau Zhe (Singapore) and Trinh Tuan Dung (Vietnam) were among the standout winners.

Read more >

Pacific Rim โ€“ Nikao, Cook Islands

The semi-finals season concluded in the Cook Islands, where Leslie Chan (Australia) and Navneet Reddy (Fiji) earned their tickets to Wales, among others.

Read more >

Host Country โ€“ Wales

Wales will proudly compete in each category, led by Sam Everton, Calum Smith, Ryan Jones, and Andrew Minto, following their victories at the Welsh International Culinary Championships.

Read more >

To relive the action from the 2025 semi-finals, click here.

Meet the Finalists

Hopefully, I can win a medal at the Global Chef Challenge finals on home soil next year.

Representing Wales in the Global Chefs Challenge is Sam Everton, lecturer at Coleg Ceredigion, Cardigan who works weekends at the Michelin accredited Yr Hen Printworks, Cardigan.
Global Chefs Challenge Finalists
  • Australia: Leslie Chan
  • Denmark: Tommy Jespersen
  • Fiji: Navneet Reddy
  • Finland (IKA 2024 Winner): Katja Tuomainen
  • Iceland: Hinrik ร“rn Lรกrusson
  • Italy: Giuseppe De Vincenzo
  • Mexico: Jaime Leal Cruz
  • Namibia: Elizabeth Puleni Taati Isai
  • Netherlands: Ruben van Zanten
  • Portugal: Andrรฉ Serra
  • Singapore: Stanton Wong Hau Zhe
  • Slovakia: Andreo Roth
  • UAE: Yury Evfimento
  • USA: Derek R. Mazzocoli
  • Vietnam: Tuan Dung Trinh
  • Wales (Host): Sam Everton
Global Pastry Chefs Challenge Finalists
  • Czech Republic: Karolรญna Hรกvovรก
  • Fiji: Vikash Chetty
  • Mexico: Pablo Galvan
  • Norway: Martine Espeland
  • Serbia: Milan Lukovic
  • Singapore: Cheng Yen Ping
  • UAE: Ruwan Kumara Phille Gedara
  • Wales (Host): Andrew Minto
Global Vegan Chefs Challenge Finalists
  • Denmark: Bjarke Jeppesen
  • Fiji: Abinesh Sharma
  • Hong Kong: Ben Chan Chi Bun
  • Italy: Luigi Dโ€™Antonio
  • Romania: Alin Vadean
  • UAE: Janam Maharjan
  • USA: Michael J. Stamets
  • Wales (Host): Ryan Jones
Global Young Chefs Challenge Finalists (Hans Bueschkens Trophy)
  • Australia: Liam Brnic
  • Cyprus: Constantina Papaioannou
  • Norway: Trym Karlsen
  • Qatar: Kevin Glorial Putra Pamara
  • Romania: Antohi Paul
  • Taiwan: Yi-Hsuan Hung
  • USA: Yeishalee Santana
  • Wales (Host): Calum Smith
Winning dishes from the Global Chefs Challenge Finals 2024.

Hear from the Finalists

The Road to Wales

We all believe [mental training] is very important. It brings you security and a good base you can stand on. If you face challenges during the competition, your coaches cannot help. You have to help yourself. This brings you self-confidence and the instruments to work on the challenges if something happens.

2024 Worldchefsโ€™ Global Chef Challenge winner, Ale Mordasini traces his inspiring journey from apprenticing in Switzerland to winning the Global Chefs Challenge Finals 2024 in Singapore on this episode of World on a Plate.

The Global Chefs Challenge is where the worldโ€™s top chefs meet to compete in four competition categories. Selected through top performance at the Worldchefs Regional Semi-Finals in 2025, qualifying teams will go head-to-head at the Global Chef Challenge Finals. Here, the best and brightest convene to show mastery in the culinary arts.

To learn more about the Global Chefs Challenge and the road to Wales 2026, visit https://worldchefs.org/globalchefschallenge/.

Explore the results from past editions.

See the Global Chefs Challenge Live

Catch the action live at Worldchefs Congress & Expo in Wales!

Network and expand your professional bonds with the most influential culinary body worldwide. Join us for Worldchefs Congress & Expo 2026, taking place 16โ€“19 May 2026 in Newport, Wales. This editionโ€™s theme, โ€˜Pasture, Passion, Plate,โ€™ celebrates the journey of food from its origins to the final dish and highlights how food connects us allโ€”from farm to fork, across borders and cultures.

“We look forward to welcoming all of our talented and driven Global Chefs Challenge competitors to Worldchefs Congress in Wales,” says Andy Cuthbert, Worldchefs President. “The event is always a highlight of the Congress, with so much energy from the competition kitchens and cheering fans.”

Donโ€™t miss this opportunity to be part of a global gathering that shapes the future of food. Plus, check out Welsh chefs’ top picks for your trip to Wales.

For a ยฃ200 discount, register by October 31 and enjoy early bird rates.

Global Chefs Challenge Finals at Worldchefs Congress & Expo 2026

Worldchefs Congress & Expo is a hallmark tradition of Worldchefs, and has been organized in cities around the world throughout its illustrious 98-year history. The forum brings together delegates from across the five continents to network and expand their professional bonds. The unique program delivers presentations and workshops from leading experts in the hospitality industry, impactful educational programs including the Worldchefs Educatorsโ€™ Forum, specialized events designed to uplift the next generation of chefs such as the Bill Gallagher Young Chefs Forum, an international trade exhibition, the Global Chefs Challenge competition, and diverse activities to enhance both personal and professional networks.

The 2026 Worldchefs Congress & Expo and Global Chefs Challenge Finals will be held in Wales, hosted by the Culinary Association of Wales.

Visit www.worldchefscongress.org for more information.

โ€“ END โ€“


โ€‹

About Worldchefs

The World Association of Chefsโ€™ Societies, known as Worldchefs, is a federation made up of 110 national chef associations. A leading voice in the hospitality industry, Worldchefs carries years of history since its founding in 1928 at the Sorbonne by the venerable Auguste Escoffier.

Representing a mobilized international membership of culinary professionals, Worldchefs is committed to advancing the profession and leveraging the influence of the chef jacket for the betterment of the industry and humanity at large.

Worldchefs is dedicated to raising culinary standards and social awareness through these core focus areas:

Humanitarianism & Sustainability โ€“ Worldchefs Feed the Planet and World Chefs Without Borders programs relieve food poverty, deliver crisis support, and promote sustainability across the globe.

Education โ€“ Worldchefs offers support for education and professional development through the Worldchefs Academy online training program, a diverse network of Worldchefs Education Partners and curriculum, and the worldโ€™s first Global Culinary Certification recognizing on-the-job skills in hospitality;

Networking โ€“ Worldchefs connects culinary professionals around the world and provides a gateway for industry networking opportunities through endorsed events and the biennial Worldchefs Congress & Expo;

Competition โ€“ Worldchefs sets global standards for competition rules, provides Competition Seminars and assurance of Worldchefs Certified Judges, and operates the prestigious Global Chefs Challenge.

Categories
Cultural & Heritage Recipes

Gutab

See below for recipe

Gutabs are a sort of folded flatbread stuffed with different fillings such as meat, an assortment of fresh green herbs, cheese or pumpkin. They are cooked on an iron disk called a โ€˜saj.โ€™ In Baku and the Absheron region of Azerbaijan, gutabs are drizzled with melted butter and served with yoghurt and pomegranate. They can also be sprinkled with sumakh, rolled into tubes and eaten with your hands. Azerbaijanis often serve gutabs with ayran โ€“ a cold yoghurt drink mixed with salt and herbs.

RECIPES Adapted by ORKHAN MUKHTAROV

Gutab with Meat – Recipe

Ingredients

For the dough:

  • 350 g wheat flour
  • 200 ml watter
  • Salt

For the filling:

  • 500 minced lamb or 250 gr minced lamb and 250 gr minced beef
  • 250 gr onion
  • Salt and Pepper
  • 12 g lavashana
Instructions
  1. Soak the small piece of lavashana in water until it dissolves. It will dissolve more quickly in hot water. If you use tomato paste, mix it also with a little bit of water.
  2. Peel and chop the onion. Mix the minced meat with the chopped onion. Add salt and pepper and lavashana or tomato paste liquid. Set the mixture aside.
  3. Mix the flour, water and salt to make dough. Separate the dough into 150 gram balls.
  4. Place the dough balls on a tea towel and cover with clingfilm. Leave the balls to rest for 5-10 minutes.
  5. Roll out the dough balls until they are 3 mm thick. Traditionally a thin, light rolling pin, ohlov, is used. Use a small plate to shape the rolled-out dough into rounds approximately 20 cm in diameter.
  6. Spread the mincemeat mixture thinly on one half of the dough round. Fold in half into a semi-circle, pressing the edges together.
  7. Kutabs are traditionally cooked on a saj, a convex iron griddle. A large frying pan turned upside down can be an excellent substitute for a saj. But it works only with gas stoves. If you have an electric stove, use a usual pan. Place two gutabs at a time on the hot pan. Traditionally gutabs are cooked without oil or butter. In our family we like to cookย  gutabs in a little bit of oil or butter (not much!). Turn over after 2-3 minutes or when the gutab begins to brown and cook on the other side.
  8. If you didnโ€™t use oil or butter when cooking, spread the cooked gutabs with melted butter or melted clarified butter while still hot and place one on top of the other to serve.
  9. Meat gutabs are often served with sumac, a red ground powder which has a zesty flavor.

Gutab with Herbs – Recipe

Ingredients

For the dough:

  • 350 g
  • 200 ml water
  • Salt

For the filling:

  • 1 egg
  • 1-2 tsp plain yoghurt
  • Salt and Pepper
  • 3 onions
  • A variety of green herbs:
    • Sorrel (or lemon juice)
    • Spinach
    • Coriander
    • Dill
Instructions
  1. Wash the herbs. Dry them very good and chop them. If herbs will give some juice, squeeze it out. Sprinkle with salt.
  2. Chop onions and pan them with some butter. You can use vegetable oil. Put the egg, yoghurt and panned onion into the herbs mix and mix good.
  3. Make dough with the flour, egg, yoghurt, water and salt. The dough must be soft enough to roll out and not stick to fingers. Make the dough into small balls, roughly 50-60 grams. Roll out each ball into a thin circle approximately 27 cm in diameter. Spread the herb mixture on one half of the gutab and fold into a semi-circular shape.
  4. Gutabs are traditionally cooked on a saj, a convex iron griddle. But I always use an ordinary frying pan. Place one or two gutabs at a time on the hot saj/pan. Do not use oil or butter during cooking. Turn over after 2-3 minutes or when the gutab begins to brown and cook on the other side.

Gutab with Pumpkin – Recipe

Ingredients

For the dough:

  • 350 g wheat flour
  • 200 ml watter
  • Salt

For the filling:

  • 1 middle pumpkin (appr. 2 kg)
  • 2 piece onion
  • 1 piece pomegranate
  • Salt and Pepper
  • Butter
Instructions
  1. Cut the pumpkin into small pieces, remove the skin and put it into the pot. Let the pumpkin simmer. Do not add water. Cook the pumpkin until the juice evaporates. Taste the pumpkin. If it is not sweet enough, add 1 tbsp of sugar.
  2. Chop the onion and fry in the butter until slightly golden brown. Add to the pumpkin and mix them well. Add pomegranate seeds.
  3. Mix the flour, water and salt to make dough. Separate the dough into 150 gram balls. Place the dough balls on a tea towel and cover with clingfilm. Leave the balls to rest for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Roll out the dough balls until they are 2 mm thick. Traditionally with a thin, light rolling pin โ€“ ohlov . Use a small plate to shape the rolled-out dough into rounds approximately 20 cm in diameter. Spread the fillingย thinly (appr. 50 gr per kutab) on one half of the dough round. Fold in half into a semi-circle, pressing the edges together.
  5. Gutabs are traditionally cooked on a saj, a convex iron griddle. A large frying pan turned upside down can be an excellent substitute for a saj. But it only works with gas stoves. If you have an electric stove, use a regular pan.

For more recipes, visit www.worldchefs.org/news.

Categories
Member News

Chefs Association of Pakistan Unites Chefs Nationwide in Grand Celebration of International Chefs Day 2025

One of the worldโ€™s largest gatherings of chefs took place in Lahore, Pakistan, marking a day of pride, passion, and culinary excellence.

Chefs Association of Pakistan (CAP), the only national member of Worldchefs from Pakistan, celebrated International Chefs Day 2025 with grand activities across the country. The nationwide celebrations brought together professional and young chefs. Together, they honored the culinary profession and the values it represents โ€” creativity, passion, and community.

Nationwide Celebrations Led by the Chefs Association of Pakistan

The main celebration took place at Alhamra Hall 1, Mall Road, Lahore. Parallel activities were organized in Karachi, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Multan, Faisalabad, Sahiwal, Sarai Alamgir, and other cities by CAPโ€™s regional chapters.

The Lahore event commenced with a special video message from Worldchefs President Andy Cuthbert. This was followed by an inspiring message from CAP President Ahmad Shafiq. CAP Vice President Chef Muhammad Raees also shared a message. A captivating video highlighting the journey and milestones of CAP was also presented. It showcased the associationโ€™s continuous efforts to uplift the chefsโ€™ community in Pakistan.

Honouring Pakistanโ€™s Culinary Leaders and Professionals

Among the CAP team attending the event were CAP Patron Waqar Ilyas Khan and Secretary General Mian Shahid Mehmood. Vice President International Affairs (Central Secretariat) Muhammad Raees and Vice President HoReCa Fraaz Kasuri were also present. Finance Secretary Nadeem Anwar, Advisors to the President Muhammad Ashraf and Muhammad Razzaq, and other members of the National Executive Committee also attended.

A highlight of the ceremony was the Chef Belt Award Presentation. Senior chefs from the hospitality industry were honoured for their outstanding services and contributions. The announcement of winners from COTHMโ€™s in-house โ€œCOTHM Culinary Challengeโ€ added further excitement to the celebration. Certificates and cash prizes were presented to participants and winners.

To mark the spirit of the day, a chefsโ€™ walk was held. There was also a balloon-release ceremony and a cake-cutting ceremony, followed by a grand hi-tea for all attendees.

Senator Bushra Anjum Butt graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. In her address, she commended CAPโ€™s role in uniting and empowering the chefsโ€™ community across Pakistan, emphasizing that the associationโ€™s growth and influence are remarkable examples of professional organization and dedication. She also assured CAP of continued government support for the development and welfare of Pakistani chefs.

Industry Sponsors Strengthen International Chefs Day 2025

The event was generously supported by industry partners. Cheezious served as the Title Sponsor, while Nestlรฉ Professional, K&Nโ€™s, and Blue Band Professional were Gold Sponsors. Ambassador Commercial Kitchen Equipment joined as the Silver Sponsor. Nestlรฉ Professionalโ€™s Nutrition Team delivered an informative session on healthy cooking practices and distributed exclusive gifts among the chefs. Blue Band Professional and K&Nโ€™s also contributed by offering product giveaways and live food tasting during the event. Cheezious supported the event with branding and promotional assistance, making the celebration even more vibrant.

A special lucky draw added to the festive mood, where a motorbike, generously sponsored by international recipe expert Ijaz Ahmad Khan, was announced as the grand prize.

Representing Pakistan on the Global Stage

During his address, CAP Secretary General Mian Shahid Mehmood highlighted that CAP continues to serve as the unified platform for chefs in Pakistan, committed to professional growth, education, and recognition. He also officially announced the Pakistan International Culinary Championship (PICC) 2026 โ€“ Season 8, inviting chefs from across the world to participate.

Adding to the excitement, CAP President Ahmad Shafiq, speaking through a video from abroad, announced that Pakistan has been selected to host the Worldchefs Asia Presidents Forum 2026, after winning the bid over Penang, Malaysia. The announcement was met with overwhelming enthusiasm and applause from the entire chefsโ€™ community.

The International Chefs Day 2025 celebrations by CAP truly embodied the theme of unity, passion, and pride in the culinary profession. Through its ongoing efforts and international collaborations, CAP continues to represent Pakistanโ€™s culinary excellence on the global stage under the umbrella of Worldchefs.

Categories
GCC - Young Chefs Partnership

Worldchefs Showcases Youth Development and Sustainability Initiatives at the World Food Forum Flagship Event 2025

Rome, Italy, October 2025 – At the World Food Forum (WFF) Flagship Event 2025, held last week at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) headquarters in Rome, Worldchefs showcased its commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable food systems.

Highlighting Worldchefs’ Global Impact

Connie Lau, Worldchefs Director of Operations and Projects, and Ajla Dunga, Project Event Coordinator, joined global leaders and partners to explore how chefs can inspire the next generation and drive a more sustainable future for food.

โ€œWe’re honoured to be invited to showcase how Worldchefs is contributing to youth development and sustainability,โ€ said Connie Lau. โ€œChefs play a key role in shaping how the world thinks about food. Thank you to the FAO and World Food Forum teams for bringing such inspiring minds together.โ€

From left to right: Ajla Dunga and Connie Lau
Connie Lau speaking with Kazuki Kitaoka and Flora Igoe
Collaborating for a Sustainable Food System

Throughout the event, Worldchefs engaged in meaningful discussions with key partners, including Kazuki Kitaoka, Director, Office of Youth and Women and Flora Igoe, Head of the Youth Culture Programme, at FAO, as well as Paul Newnham and Clare Crowe Pettersson from the Chefsโ€™ Manifesto.

Sessions were held throughout the course of the event, exploring topics such as plant-based diets and indigenous food traditions. There were also interesting discussions on the role of e-learning in making culinary education more accessible worldwide. These fruitful conversations sparked insights that will power the future of Worldchefsโ€™ own Feed the Planet and Worldchefs Academy programs.

“Collaborating with Worldchefs on the upcoming Young Chefs Programme (YCP) has been an inspiring experience. Having Worldchefs exhibit at the Youth Booth in the FAO Atrium during the World Food Forum Flagship Event brought the energy and purpose of their youth-led initiatives directly to our visitors,” said Flora Igoe, Head of the Youth Culture Programme at FAO. “The exhibition effectively demonstrated how culinary skills can drive system-wide change in our agrifood systems. I encourage all young chefs to apply to the YCP and take part in this exciting journey to become leaders in transforming agrifood systems through culinary practices.”

“The World Food Forum Flagship event in Rome was buzzing with energy and purpose,” said Ajla Dunga, Worldchefs Project Event Coordinator. “We had the chance to talk with people from all over the world, meeting students, professionals and experts from different organizations who share the same drive to take responsibility for our future. You could truly feel the shared commitment to change.”

A Shared Mission for a Better Food Future

Worldchefsโ€™ participation at the WFF Flagship Event reflects its ongoing partnership with FAO and its shared mission to create a better food future. The event provided an important opportunity to showcase Worldchefsโ€™ initiatives and connect with organizations and individuals leading like-minded efforts in sustainability, education, and community empowerment.

โ€œItโ€™s through these collaborations that we can amplify our collective impact,โ€ said Lau. โ€œBy leveraging our global network of chefs, we can help drive positive change at every level, in kitchens, classrooms, and communities worldwide.โ€

Worldchefs extends its gratitude to the FAO and World Food Forum teams for bringing together a passionate community dedicated to rethinking our global food systems and shaping a more sustainable tomorrow. Looking ahead, Worldchefs is excited to continue its collaboration with WFF through the recently launched World Food Forum Young Chefs Programme (YCP). This initiative empowers chefs aged 18 to 35 to lead the transformation of agrifood systems through structured trainings, mentorships, peer-to-peer exchange, and ongoing guidance supported by Worldchefs. To learn more about the programme and apply, click here.

Categories
Member News

Asia Presidents Forum 2025: Held in China for the First Time

From October 15 to 19, 2025, the Asian Presidents Forum held in Suzhou, China, achieved remarkable success, laying a strong foundation for the future development of the Asian culinary industry.

The most significant day was October 16, when the official meeting brought together all 18 Presidents from Asian nations, with others sending messages of support and encouragement. Throughout the forum, numerous collaborative projects were adopted, reflecting substantial progress and fostering a positive outlook for regional cooperation. The open and constructive exchanges resulted in meaningful outcomes, instilling confidence in the industry’s future across Asia.

On October 17-18, participants engaged in China Cuisine Associationโ€™s Chefs Festival, Exhibition, and Competitions. This vibrant platform not only showcased culinary excellence but also promoted innovative ideas and strengthened regional ties among Asian culinary leaders. Delegates also had the opportunity to explore Suzhouโ€™s historic sites and cultural heritage, adding a memorable cultural dimension to the event.

We sincerely thank the Suzhou Municipal Government for creating such an exceptional environment and atmosphere. Strolling through the city, the tranquility of classical gardens seamlessly complemented the vitality of modern venuesโ€”an apt reflection of our culinary industry: a balance between preserving tradition and embracing innovation.

Overall, these three days of meetings and activities deepened regional cooperation and understanding, painting an optimistic vision for joint development across Asia. The Asian Presidents Forum has proven to be a vital platform for fostering exchanges, collaboration, and showcasing culinary innovation. Moving forward, it will serve as a beacon for regional unity and progress. We look forward to even greater achievements in the years to come.

Discover the below article from mp.weixin.qq.com

The World Association of Chefs’ Societies’ Asian Presidents’ Meeting was held in China for the first time…

On October 16, the World Association of Chefs Societies’ Asia Presidents Forum 2025, co-hosted by the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (Worldchefs) and the China Cuisine Association, was held in Suzhou. This meeting, held in China for the first time, was an important milestone.

Wu Qingwen, Deputy Secretary of the Suzhou Municipal Party Committee and Mayor, Yang Liu, President of the China Cuisine Association, and Willment Leong, President of the Worldchefs Asia Continental Director, attended the meeting and delivered speeches. Xu Meijian, Chairman of the Suzhou Jiangnan Food Culture Foundation and former Deputy Secretary of the Party Leadership Group and Deputy Director of the Suzhou Municipal People’s Congress Standing Committee, Xu Ben, Secretary-General of the Suzhou Municipal Government, and Zhang Fei, Deputy Director of the Suzhou Municipal Bureau of Commerce, along with representatives from the catering industry of over 20 countries and regions in Asia, also attended the meeting.

As one of the important events held concurrently with the 34th China Chefs Festival, this conference is themed “Promoting Asian Catering Cooperation and Sustainable Development”, focusing on topics such as catering education, green development and cultural exchange, aiming to build a regional cooperation platform, build consensus and promote coordinated development.

Deepening cooperation consensus: China Cuisine Association and Worldchefs join hands to promote industry development

Founded in 1928, Worldchefs is an international non-profit organization affiliated with the United Nations International Labour Organization. It has official chef association members from more than 100 countries and regions. As an important cooperation platform in the international catering industry, Worldchefs continues to play an active role in the inheritance of culinary skills, the standardization of catering education, and sustainable development.

As the only official member of Worldchefs in China, the China Cuisine Association has long represented the Chinese catering industry in international affairs and promoted the exchange of skills and cultural exchanges. This Asia President’s Forum 2025 was held in China for the first time, reflecting Worldchefs high attention to the development of China’s catering industry. It also marks that the role of China’s catering industry in regional cooperation is moving from “participant in cultural exchange” to “co-builder of industry standards,” providing a broader platform for the international dissemination and cooperation of Chinese cuisine.

Against this backdrop, new opportunities are emerging for Asian catering cooperation. Asia boasts a rich and diverse culinary culture. While each country’s catering industry possesses distinct development paths and industry structures, they also face common challenges in areas such as supply chain collaboration and green transformation. This conference, upholding an open and inclusive spirit, will serve as a platform for cooperation and exchange in the Asian catering industry, fostering resource sharing and mutual learning, and driving the region’s catering industry towards more sustainable and coordinated development.

Release of the “Suzhou Initiative of Asian Chefs’ Association”: Jointly build an open and shared Asian catering cooperation mechanism

In the important agenda of the meeting, the participating representatives had in-depth exchanges on sustainable development and industry responsibility, and formed an important outcome – the “Suzhou Initiative of the Asian Chefs Association”, calling on the Asian catering industry to work together to practice sustainable concepts, cherish the gifts of nature, advocate conservation, green and responsible consumption, and promote the formation of a healthy and rational food culture.

The launch of the initiative reflects the common concern of the Asian catering industry about food security, ecological protection and industry responsibility.

Declaration site

“โ€”โ€”Worldchefs Asia Presidents Forum 2025

We, chefs, scholars and restaurant industry representatives from across Asia, have gathered in the historic city of Suzhou on this United Nations World Food Day to reflect on the mission and responsibility of cooking.

We advocate:

Hold on to the gifts of nature and make the best use of them.

Adopt local season to reduce road loss.

Cooking non-standard ingredients, turning clumsiness into skill.

Divide meals into fixed amounts to prevent waste at the table.

The initiative calls on all catering practitioners in Asia to respond to the gifts of nature with culinary civilization and reshape the harmonious relationship between people and food.”

Using “flavor” as a medium: Suzhou showcases a new image of Chinese culinary culture

As the host city, Suzhou, with its unique Jiangnan charm and profound culinary culture, added a unique cultural dimension to the exchange. Yang Xiaofeng, Secretary-General of the Suzhou Culinary Association, and several outstanding local chefs participated in the meeting, discussing innovative techniques and industry trends with their Asian counterparts, showcasing the inclusive and continuously innovative spirit of Suzhou’s culinary industry.

The conference also specially arranged a national intangible cultural heritage performance – Suzhou Pingtan. The graceful and soft voice added a Jiangnan charm to the event, and also allowed the guests to feel “Suzhou beyond the taste” in cultural resonance.

Group photo of the meeting

This conference not only deepened cooperation and exchange within the Asian culinary community, but also allowed the global culinary community to further appreciate the openness and cultural confidence of the Chinese culinary industry. Looking ahead, the China Cuisine Association will continue to work hand in hand with the World Association of Chefs’ Societies and their counterparts across Asia, contributing Chinese wisdom and strength to promoting sustainable development of the industry and fostering mutual learning among civilizations.

Relive the forum:

Categories
Cultural & Heritage Recipes

Traditional Polish Rye Sourdough Bread – โ€œStaropolski Chleb ลปytniโ€

A Symbol of Prosperity, Hospitality, and Peace

See below for recipe

Bread has always held a sacred place in Polish culture โ€“ as a symbol of prosperity, hospitality, and peace. From Neolithic flatbreads baked on hot stones to todayโ€™s artisan sourdough loaves, it has united generations around the table. To this day, bread remains a cherished part of every Polish home and daily meal โ€“ a living tradition that continues to nourish both body and spirit. More than food, it is a gesture of sharing and gratitude โ€“ a timeless expression of Polandโ€™s heart and heritage.

The history of Polish bread dates back to the Neolithic period, around 4000 B.C., when the first simple flatbreads made of flour and water were baked on heated stones across the lands of todayโ€™s Poland. These early flatbreads, known as podpล‚omyki, were the precursors of later loaves and formed a staple food for early agricultural communities who learned to cultivate grains and grind them into flour.

During the Middle Ages, the art of breadmaking flourished in towns and monasteries. Urban and monastic bakeries perfected fermentation techniques and introduced special ovens designed for bread baking. It was in this period that the famous sourdough rye bread, or zytniak, appeared โ€“ dark in color, slightly tangy in taste, and long-lasting. It became the foundation of the Polish diet for centuries. Over time, alongside rye loaves, white breads, crescent rolls and ring-shaped obwarzanki emerged, reflecting the growing prosperity and urban development of Polish society.

Through the centuries, bread accompanied Poles not only in daily life but also during lifeโ€™s most significant moments. It became a symbol of abundance, honest work and divine blessing. In Polish homes, bread was always treated with deep respect โ€“ throwing bread away was considered a sin, and the first loaf baked at home was traditionally marked with the sign of the cross.

In Polish culture, bread also symbolizes hospitality and unity. The beautiful custom of welcoming guests with bread and salt has survived to this day, expressing respect, generosity and wishes for prosperity. During the Christmas Eve supper, families share a thin wafer โ€“ the โ€œoplatekโ€, a symbolic form of bread โ€“ as a sign of reconciliation and love.

A particularly touching tradition is the ceremonial greeting of newlyweds with bread and salt by their parents before entering the wedding reception hall. This gesture carries deep symbolic meaning: parents offer bread as a wish for abundance and the reward of work, salt as a sign of endurance and wisdom, and wine or vodka as a symbol of joy and love in the coupleโ€™s new life together. This ritual connects generations and remains one of the most moving moments of a Polish wedding celebration.

In Polish folklore, bread also had magical and protective significance. It was believed to bring good fortune and safeguard against hunger. Mothers placed a small piece of bread in their newbornsโ€™ clothes, while godmothers would give children little โ€œbread dollsโ€ (kukieล‚ki) as tokens of protection and prosperity.

Today, despite changing trends, bread remains an enduring symbol of Polish identity and everyday life. Across the country, artisan bakeries are returning to traditional sourdough methods, natural flours, and long fermentation processes, restoring the true taste of bread that connects generations.

In Poland, bread is more than food โ€“ it is a gesture of sharing, an expression of gratitude, and a sign of peace. It continues to remind us of the values that form the foundation of our community โ€“ work, solidarity, and love for the land from which it grows.

Traditional Polish Rye Sourdough Bread โ€œStaropolski Chleb ลปytniโ€ – Recipe

Adapted by JOANNA OCHNIAK
Ingredients

For the sourdough starter (5-day fermentation):

  • Whole rye flour (type 2000) โ€“ 100 g daily
  • Lukewarm water (about 35 ยฐC) โ€“ 100 ml daily

For the final dough:

  • Active rye sourdough starter โ€“ 200 g
  • Light rye flour (type 720) โ€“ 500 g
  • Whole rye flour (type 2000) โ€“ 250 g
  • Lukewarm water โ€“ about 500 ml
  • Salt โ€“ 1 ยฝ tablespoons (about 15 g)
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon of honey or beet molasses (for aroma and color)
  • Optional: a handful of sunflower seeds, flaxseed, or poppy seeds
Instructions

Preparing the Sourdough Starter

Day 1:
  • In a glass jar or ceramic bowl, mix 100 g of whole rye flour with 100 ml of lukewarm water.
  • Stir with a wooden spoon until it forms a thick batter.
  • Cover loosely with a cloth (do not seal) and leave in a warm place (about 25 ยฐC).
Day 2:
  • You should see the first bubbles and a faint sour aroma. Add another 100 g of rye flour and 100 ml of water.
  • Stir, cover, and let rest.
Day 3:
  • The starter will now smell stronger and show more bubbles on the surface. Feed again with 100 g of flour and 100 ml of water.
Day 4:
  • Fermentation intensifies. Stir in another 100 g of flour and 100 ml of water.
Day 5:
  • The starter is now ready to use โ€“ thick, bubbly, and pleasantly sour in aroma. If a thin layer of liquid forms on top, simply stir it in before using.

(Keep some of this starter in a jar in the fridge to use for your next loaf โ€“ it can live for years when refreshed regularly.)

Making the Bread

  1. In a large bowl, mix the starter with the lukewarm water. Add salt, honey (if using), and both flours.
  2. Stir with a wooden spoon until the ingredients are combined. The dough will be dense and sticky โ€“ thatโ€™s perfect for rye bread.
  3. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it ferment at room temperature (24โ€“26 ยฐC) for about 12โ€“14 hours (overnight).
  4. When the dough has doubled in size and is full of air bubbles, transfer it to a greased and floured baking tin.
  5. Smooth the top with a wet hand. Cover and let it rise again for 2โ€“3 hours.
  6. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 220 ยฐC.
  7. Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 10 minutes at 220 ยฐC, then reduce the temperature to 190 ยฐC and bake for another 40โ€“50 minutes.
  8. Remove from the tin and cool completely on a rack. The bread tastes best after a few hours of rest, when the crumb has fully set and the aroma deepens.

For more recipes, visit www.worldchefs.org/news.

Categories
Member News

Gulf Gourmet Magazine – October 2025

In this issue of Gulf Gourmet’s magazine, meet Chef Grant Marais, learn more about FoodVerse and discover other inspiring stories.

To learn more about Worldchefs, click here.


About the Emirates Culinary Guild (ECG)

An Overview of the Emirates Culinary Guild
The Emirates Culinary Guild (ECG) is the association of professional chefs of the UAE. It is a non-profit-making organisation, organised by volunteers dedicated solely to the advancement of culinary art in the UAE.

The World Association of Chefs Societies (Worldchefs) (www.worldchefs.org) is the 105-nation fellowship of the world’s various professional chefs’ organisations.

The ECG received its charter into Worldchefs at a ceremony in Stavanger, Norway on June 28, 1994, during the Worldchefs 26th World Congress. Worldchefs endorses the ECG as the authorized professional culinary association for the UAE. The ECG, thereby, has an international culinary focus and multi-national support for the staging of its various competitions, seminars and events.

The aims of the ECG, broadly, are:

  • To encourage and inspire young chefs through training and competition.
  • To enhance internationally the culinary prestige of the UAE.
  • To encourage UAE nationals to consider a career within the hospitality industry.

Social media plays a large part in the Guilds self-promotion and the Gulf Gourmet magazine drive awareness around the globe. www.emiratesculinaryguild.net/, www.facebook.com/Emirates-Culinary-Guild-763644223697376/timeline/, www.facebook.com/gulfgourmet?fref=ts, follow these links for more information on the Emirates Culinary Guild.

Membership of the ECG is open to all of those professionally and solely involved in the preparation of food.

Anyone interested in the ECG please find their contact below.

The Emirates Culinary Guild
PO Box 454922 โ€“ Dubai โ€“ UAE
Tel: + 971 56 8014089.
E-mail: emiratesculinaryguild@gmail.com

Categories
FeedThePlanet

Inspiring Global Action with the Worldโ€™s Largest Food Heroes Workshop in Sri Lanka

This summer, Worldchefsโ€™ Feed the Planet partners, Electrolux Food Foundation (EFF) and AIESEC, came together in Sri Lanka to host the worldโ€™s largest Food Heroes Workshop, inspiring thousands of young changemakers to take action for a more sustainable future.

Food Heroes, an educational initiative for kids, is a part of UNICEFโ€™s Worldโ€™s Largest Lesson. It teaches young people about the relationship between healthy food, our bodies and our environment, through an interactive workshop.

Since 2018, over +247,000 kids have been reached by Electrolux Food Foundation, AIESEC, and Worldchefs across +30 countries.

Empowering Youth Through Education

This summer in Sri Lanka, a multi-day event united 261 delegates from 63 countries, using the Food Heroes workshop to make a tangible difference through education.

On Day 1, AIESEC participants joined a training and brainstorming session designed to help them deliver impactful Food Heroes workshops. Led by the Electrolux Food Foundation team, the session equipped participants with tools to engage students on the topic of sustainable eating.

Feeding the Future

Day 2 began with an inspiring keynote by Cosimo Scarano, Head of Electrolux Food Foundation, titled โ€œFeeding the Future: How Purpose, Food, and Action Can Change the World.โ€ The momentum carried into classrooms, where trained youth leaders delivered 86 Food Heroes sessions to 2,889 students, ages 11โ€“17.

86 Food Heroes Sessions
2,889 Students

Through interactive activities and discussions, the students explored how their daily food choices can drive change. Once the sessions concluded, participants left with clear next steps to drive sustainable change:

  • Serving and eating only whatโ€™s needed
  • Eating more plants and local food
  • Shopping and planning meals mindfully
  • Reusing leftovers and reducing food waste
  • Spreading awareness and leading by example

โ€œAt the Electrolux Food Foundation, we believe that sustainability starts with awareness โ€” and that education is the most powerful tool we have to inspire change,โ€ said Cosimo Scarano. โ€œBy helping children understand the link between food and the environment, we are planting the seeds for a future where sustainable choices become the preferred ones.โ€

In total, 277 facilitators brought this Food Heroes event to life. As the world’s largest edition, these workshops in Sri Lanka served as a powerful demonstration of how collaboration across borders can spark global action.

Cosimo Scarano, Head of Electrolux Food Foundation

For many volunteers, the experience was impactful and deeply personal. Elcan Bayramli, one of the facilitators, shared:

โ€œBeing in that classroom was not just teaching, it was learning, and it reminded me why this has always been a dream of mine,โ€ said Bayramli. โ€œWhen we empower the next generation with knowledge and values, we are planting the seeds for a world where young people can truly save the planet.โ€

Elcan Bayramli leading a Food Heroes class.

On the final two days of the event, Electrolux Food Foundation joined the Youth Speak Forum, contributing to the panel โ€œInclusive Job Markets and Equity in Access to Opportunities.โ€ During the Excellence Awards ceremony, AIESEC’s 30 national offices were recognized for their ongoing dedication to the Food Heroes program.

A Growing Global Movement

This World Food Day, we are proud to officially announce the achievement of having reached our 2030 goal of educating 300,000 kids worldwide through our Food Heroes initiative. An objective originally planned for 2030, we are now more than five years ahead of schedule, inspiring a new 2030 goal to educate 1 million people on sustainable food habits. To learn more, click here.

The Food Heroes Workshop in Sri Lanka marked a major milestone in the shared mission of Worldchefs, Electrolux Food Foundation, and AIESEC to build a more sustainable food culture through education. Together, weโ€™re showing that the path to a better planet begins with small actions, and that young people have the power to lead the way.

Watch the aftermovie to relive the experience:

Thank you to the teams at Electrolux Food Foundation and AIESEC who made this event possible. Your continued support and ambition further the success of Feed the Planet.

To learn more about Food Heroes or register your workshop, click the button below:

To view more photos, click here.

Categories
International Chefs Day

Join the Albanian Chefs & Cooks Association in Celebrating International Chefs Day

International Chefs Day is just around the corner on October 20th. Established in 2004 by the late Chef Dr. Bill Gallagher, this global celebration honors the culinary profession and inspires the next generation. Each year, chefs around the world share their passion for cooking and promote healthy eating in their communities.

Since joining Worldchefs in 2018, the Albanian Chefs & Cooks Association has enthusiastically embraced this mission. Known locally in Albania as โ€œChefs Day,โ€ their celebration has become a national tradition. Each year, they unite chefs, children, and partners for an experience filled with healthy food and community.

Tradition of Culinary Celebration in Albania

From their first event at the Hilton Garden Inn Tirana in 2018, the association has united chefs each year on this special day to showcase Albaniaโ€™s culinary talent and engage with younger generations. Over the years, โ€œChefs Dayโ€ has evolved into an annual festival focused on education, inclusion, and the joys of cooking.

The 2018 edition marked the first time that the country’s National Team gathered after becoming a Worldchefs member. The day was filled with many activities, including cooking and an award ceremony. The festivities continued in 2019, with a day said to have been one that children will remember for a long time.

In 2020, the association hosted activities at Tiranaโ€™s New Market, dedicated to culinary exploration. Throughout the day, children had the opportunity to grow their passion for cooking and understand different gastronomic tastes. The children learned to cook traditional pancakes, preparing the dough and later decorating them in this hands-on workshop. By 2022, the event had grown. Still promoting the career of chefs, educating children about healthy eating and promoting local cuisine, the event now also included educational activities for a healthy lifestyle, including yoga exercises and an olive oil workshop.

The 2023 and 2024 editions marked two more successful years of Albanian chefs sharing their passion while teaching children how to cook and eat healthy. Chefs guided children through fun cooking sessions centered on the theme “Growing Great Chefs” underscoring their commitment to teaching good nutrition through experience.

This year, the Albanian Chefs & Cooks Association is once again leading by example. Their 2025 celebration will welcome children with Down syndrome to take part in culinary workshops and community festivities.

โ€œIt’s a great feeling because Chefs Day is the day for our chefs, to celebrate and do their best to promote healthy food for children. In Albania, we are doing just that,โ€ says Asim Prengรซzaj, Founder and President of the Albanian Chefs & Cooks Association.
โ€œThis year, we also will have a Chefs Night in collaboration with the Albania Bartender Association and Tirana Cocktail Bar, a wonderful way to close our celebration and unite the community.โ€

Asim Prengรซzaj, President of the Albanian Chefs & Cooks Association

Watch the video recaps from the last few editions:

Food Explorers: The 2025 International Chefs Day Theme

In partnership with Nestlรฉ Professional, Worldchefs is proud to present this yearโ€™s International Chefs Day theme: Food Explorers. This theme invites children everywhere to embark on a culinary adventure. Discovering the joys of cooking, the importance of healthy eating, and the value of sustainable practices, young โ€œfood explorersโ€ will explore fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients ,as well as gain a curiosity and deeper understanding of cooking.

Chefs around the world are encouraged to join the movement by hosting hands-on cooking sessions, garden tours, or fun nutrition activities, that can connect children to the world of cooking. Let’s inspire the next generation!

Ways to Get Involved

You can make a difference in your community by taking part in International Chefs Day 2025. Download the official toolkit to access recipes, workshop tips, posters, certificates, and a recipe book for kids to take home. Every event, no matter the size, will make a masting impact.

Follow the Albanian Chefs & Cooks Association on Instagram to see their 2025 Chefs Day celebrations and ongoing projects.

Around the World: International Chefs Day 2025 Events

Here are just a few examples of how Worldchefs members are celebrating this year:

Join chefs across the globe on October 20th to celebrate our profession, inspire the next generation, and continue building a healthier future through food.

Categories
News

Let There Be Bread: Celebrating World Bread Day 2025

At the dawn of the 21st century, the International Union of Bakers and Confectioners (UIBC) established World Bread Day as a way to highlight one of the world’s oldest foods and honor the bakers around the world who dedicate their craft to it.

Each year on October 16th, we celebrate the culinary and cultural significance of bread. The UIBC deliberately chose October 16th as the day for this celebration to coincide with the anniversary of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, founded in 1945 under the motto of ‘Fiat Panic’, meaning ‘Let there be bread.’

Join us as we journey through the history of bread, explore its roots and evolution, and discover ways you can celebrate World Bread Day this year!

The History of Bread

Bread has nourished humankind since prehistoric times. Experts trace its origins back over 30,000 years, when early humans baked simple breads on heated stones. In 3000 BCE, Egyptians developed leavened bread using wild yeast. Soon after, it became a staple for Egyptian diets, consumed by everyone from pharoahs to peasants. Bread even served as a currency to pay workers.

Throughout ancient civilizations, bread took many forms: griddle cakes, honey and oil loaves, and rolls designed for the military. During the period of the Gauls and Iberians, early bakers experimented with fermenting dough using beer froth or wine juice, and it followed that the cultivation of wheat spread from the Middle East across Europe, North Africa, and Asia.

By the Middle Ages, baking had become a profession, and bread a symbol of community and sustenance. Fast forward to the 20th century, Otto Frederick Rohwedderโ€™s invention of the sliced bread machine in 1912 forever changed the way we eat, giving rise to the phrase still heard today: โ€œthe best thing since sliced bread.โ€

Otto Frederick Rohwedder, Inventor of the sliced bread machine
MORE THAN A MEAL: BREAD IN CULTURE

In earlier times, bread reflected class divisions. Wealthy citizens had access to white bread made of wheat, while lesser privileged people received coarse, dark bread made of barley. Beyond class, bread also became a political symbol. In ancient Rome, the phrase โ€œbread and circusesโ€ symbolized the governmentโ€™s efforts to appease citizens with free grain and entertainment, so that citizens remained loyal and had less civil unrest.

Today, bread more commonly connects rather than divides. It has become a symbol of unity, generosity and celebration, served at at weddings, religious celebrations, and on tables across the globe. From the baguette in France, to the naan in India, to the tortillas in Mexico, bread transcends borders, cultures and languages.

THe nutritional side of bread

Since its beginnings, bread has been essential to global nutrition, offering a source of carbohydrates, fiber and key vitamins and minerals. While its ingredients are simple, bread remains one of the most adaptable foods.

Today’s consumers are increasingly conscious of their health, inspiring innovation in the bread scene. Multigrain and gluten-free options are rising in popularity; sourdough offers gut-friendly benefits, while rye and whole grain breads provide added fiber and nutrients. There is a bread for every nutritional need and palate.

THe global bread market

As bread continues to evolve, the market reflects its expansion. In 2024, the bread market was estimated at 233.43 billion USD, projected to increase to 327.11 billion by 2033. From Europe to North America, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America, demand for diverse ingredients, techniques and flavors continues to expand.

A Global Tour of Bread

To tap into the many ways bread exists around the world, we’ve asked our Culture, Cuisine & Heritage Food Committee to share some traditional recipes from their respective countries.

Dedicated committee members from Australia, Azerbaijan, Croatia, Cyprus, Italy, Luxembourg, Russia, USA and UAE generously shared traditional bread recipes for our archives. Let’s take a tour across the globe:

Oceania

Starting our tour in Australia, Damper tells the story of simplicity and survival. Made from flour, water, and salt, it was once baked in the ashes of campfires by explorers and settlers during the early colonial period. Today, it is baked in ovens.

Damper
Pana’ Vicentina with Chicken and Celeriac
EUrope

In Europe, bread remains a daily essential; it’s a symbol of nourishment, sharing and memory, present on table across generations. Italian households have long valued the principle of never wasting bread, giving rise to extraordinary recipes that transform what remains into something new. Discover Pana’ Vicentina with Chicken and Celeriac, a simple soup from the Italian province Vicenza, made with stale bread and broth. In Poland, bread holds a similarly special place, as a symbol of prosperity, hospitality, and peace. From Neolithic flatbreads baked on hot stones to todayโ€™s artisan sourdough loaves, it has united generations around the table. Traditional Polish Rye Sourdough Bread embodies this heritage. Having been the foundation of the Polish diet for centuries, it is a bread that transcends and connects generations.

Americas

Across the Atlantic, American breads tell stories of comfort. Parker House Rolls, created in the 1870s at Bostonโ€™s Parker House Hotel, became known for their buttery softness and unique folded shape. On the West Coast, San Francisco Sourdough carries a history linked to the Gold Rush, and became popular once again more recently during the pandemic. Born out of necessity, this bread has firmly stood the test of time.

Parker House Rolls
Fasali
Asia & Middle east

In Western Asia and the Middle East, bread often holds a sacred and communal role. In Azerbaijan, breads like Fasali and Fatir have held a special place in the daily life and spiritual values of the Azerbaijani people. The remarkable variety of Azerbaijani breads demonstrates the nationโ€™s deep knowledge, skill, and craftsmanship in this field. Bread in Azerbaijani culture symbolizes abundance and sacredness; it is always the first item placed on the table and the last to be removed. 

& MORE TRADITIONAL RECIPES

Curious for more recipes? Check out the list below:

Each of these breads captures the essence of a place and its people. Whether born from necessity, celebration, or heritage, they remind us that bread serves as a connection across cultures and a link between past and present.

Thank you to Peter Tischhauser, John Coletta, Nikolas Konstantinou, Erich Glavica, Alla Mishina, Atim Suyatim, Orkhan Mukhtarov, Gianluca Tomasi and Ben Weber for these recipe contributions.

How You Can Celebrate World Bread Day 2025
  1. Bake a Bread: Try one of the recipes shared by our Worldchefs Cuisine, Culture & Heritage Committee this World Bread Day.
  2. Share Your Favorite Bread Recipe: Do you have a traditional bread recipe you’d like to share? Share it with us here.
  3. Support Food Security: Consider donating to organizations such as the FAO and others working to fight hunger worldwide.
  4. Learn About Global Food Insecurity: World Bread Day reminds us that food access remains a global challenge. Take the time to learn about hunger issues and how you can be part of creating a more food-secure future.

Happy World Bread Day!


Sources:

https://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/bread-market

https://www.historyofbread.com

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