Master class from MGTO, Wynn Macau brings Suzhou’s cuisine and culture to local chefs

Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) and Wynn Macau Ltd have created a master class in the regional cuisine of Suzhou, Jiangsu province. An acclaimed master of this cuisine, Hua Yonggen, was guest speaker at the event, while head chef of Suzhou’s Jiang Nan Delicacy, Chen Jianping, held a live demonstration. The Suzhou Cuisine Workshop was held at the Wynn Food and Beverage Academy in June.

The workshop is part of the Masterclass Series of Culinary Expertise Demonstrations aimed to inspire local professional chefs to gain a deeper understanding of the essence and preparation of China’s cuisines. The  masterclass series help chefs expand their horizons and enhance their expertise, helping steer Macao’s catering industry towards greater diversification and professionalism, and to creating high-quality travel experiences for visitors.

MGTO Deputy Director Cheng Wai Tong said 2021 marks the fourth anniversary of Macao gaining designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. Macao continues to leverage gastronomy as an element of cultural exchange, revealing the city’s diverse cultural harmony.

Participants shared culinary ideas with each other and seized the occasion to learn more about the essence of Suzhou cuisine through exchanges with Master Hua and Chef Chen. Master Hua elaborated on the artistry of Suzhou cuisine, and Chef Chen demonstrated a set of skills by preparing “garden coin-patterned cube cake” and “pan-fried shrimps with chickpeas”.

With almost 50 years’ experience in culinary coaching and management, and food culture study in Suzhou, Master Hua is dedicated to the preservation and development of Suzhou cuisine. He is the Honorary Chairman of Jiangsu Province Cuisine Association, and Chairman of Gastronomic Culture Study Association of Suzhou Cuisine Association.