Menorca seeks its Young Chef 2027 to showcase the island's cuisine in Europe

Bep Al·lès / Ciutadella - Menorca is once again investing in the talent of the next generation of chefs with the launch of the Jove Xef Menorquí 2027 competition, an initiative designed to discover young professionals capable of interpreting the island's gastronomic traditions from a contemporary perspective. The winner will represent Menorca at the European Young Chef Award 2027, an international competition associated with IGCAT, which will take place in the Central Dalmatia region of Croatia.

Organised by Menorca European Region of Gastronomy, the competition is open to young people born between 1 January 2001 and 31 December 2008. Applications must be submitted by 18 January 2027, while the island final will take place on 6 March.

Traditional Menorcan lamb offal stew takes centre stage

One of the distinctive features of this edition is the selection of freixurat de be de Menorca, a traditional Menorcan lamb offal dish, as the competition's central recipe. Deeply rooted in the island's rural cooking traditions, the dish reflects a philosophy of making full use of available ingredients, when every part of the animal had a culinary purpose.

Freixurat is traditionally prepared using lamb offal, together with onions, green peppers, garlic and bay leaves, among other ingredients. It forms part of Menorca's gastronomic memory and represents a resourceful approach to cooking that is increasingly appreciated today for its connection with food sustainability.

Finalists will be required to present two interpretations of the same dish. The first must respect the traditional recipe, both in its ingredients and preparation. The second will be an innovative creation, allowing contestants to demonstrate their creativity, mastery of culinary techniques and ability to reinterpret Menorca's gastronomic heritage.

The jury will particularly value dishes inspired by Menorcan artists, as well as presentation, sustainability and the ability to communicate the history and identity of the recipe.

Training and international opportunities

The competition will assess more than the finished dish. Technical knowledge, communication skills and proficiency in English will also be considered, as contestants must be able to explain and defend their creations before the European jury.

From May onwards, the winner will begin specialised training with mentors who will help refine their culinary proposal and prepare for the international competition.

This experience represents an opportunity for young professionals and helps promote Menorcan gastronomy beyond the island, highlighting traditional recipes, local ingredients and the innovative potential of the next generation.

Applications open until 18 January

Applicants must submit the registration form, a copy of their national identity document, their CV and an introductory video lasting no more than one minute. All documentation must be sent to producte@menorca.es.

The finalists will be announced on 26 January, and the new Jove Xef Menorquí 2027 will be proclaimed on 6 March, taking on the challenge of representing Menorca's culinary identity in Europe.