Some of the country’s best chefs cooked up a storm over the last few days as they went head-to-head in the Malta Kulinarja cookery and culinary arts championships.

The competition, held at the MFCC in Ta’ Qali by the Malta Chefs Society under the auspices of the World Association of Chefs Societies, saw about 300 Maltese and foreign chefs vying for prestigious awards in different categories.

Under the watchful eyes of nine international judges flown in for the event, the participants competed for the titles of Chef of the Year, Junior Chef of the Year and Pastry Chef of the Year, among others, as well as a number of team awards.

They also took part in events including a ‘mystery box’ of ingredients, vegan and street-food challenges, and dishes centred on little-used Mediterranean fish.

The competitions formed part of Vivanda, an annual culinary event focused on Euro-Mediterranean gastronomical traditions, cultures and innovations which took place between Thursday and Sunday. Apart from the cooking championships, visitors had the chance to savour food and wine and take a first-hand look at the novelties within the industry.

Forty exhibitors from across the culinary sector showcased their wares to both foodies and business owners.

Photos: Matthew Mirabelli