Truffle Perfection: Gustarae Development Chef Leonardo Gualtieri Hosts Masterclass at West London College
The Chefs’ Forum Academy students at West London College were recently treated to a masterclass delivered by Leonardo Gualtieri, Development Chef at Gustarae. The session was another valuable opportunity to bridge the gap between education and industry, and for the next generation of culinary professionals to work alongside industry experts.
The focus of the masterclass was to complement their Level 2 Professional Cookery curriculum. The brief: a rice-based dish. Chef Gualtieri used this brief to deliver a cook-along of his dish – Truffle arancini and aioli.
Students benefit greatly from the support of industry partners like Gustarae. The company, driven by authentic Italian craft and culinary innovation, was able to bring professional-grade skills and techniques directly into the training kitchens. This ensures students gain skills, such as the advanced rice work demonstrated by the signature arancini, that will be invaluable to their careers.
The masterclass was attended by a group of 16 adult learners who are highly motivated to advance in the industry. The group is composed of students who are, for the most part, working in the hospitality sector and are attending the college’s twilight programme one day a week to achieve their qualification and progress their careers.
By leading the students through the preparation of a refined dish like the truffle arancini, Chef Gualtieri provided hands-on experience and demonstrated the high-level technical skills required in professional kitchens. The practical, industry-led format of the session ensured the students gained the essential knowledge needed to immediately apply their learning in their professional roles.
Denise Charles, Head of Curriculum – Service Industries at West London College said:
“Our partnership with The Chefs’ Forum Academy is vital. It brings the dynamic reality of the industry right into our college, giving all our students the essential, high-level, practical experience they need to succeed and accelerate their careers.”
Leonardo Gualtieri, Development Chef at Gustarae said:
“Working with The Chefs’ Forum Academy and these talented students is incredibly rewarding. It’s my chance to share real-world techniques and the passion behind professional cookery, ensuring they leave college ready to make an immediate, impactful difference in our industry.”
