Morocco has emerged victorious at the Bocuse d’Or Africa 2024, an esteemed culinary competition held in Marrakech, part of the Official Tournament of Chefs Africa (TOC Africa). The winning chefs—Yassine Bogdad, Youssef Lamghani, and Ahmed Ben Semlali—were guided by the esteemed Chef Moha Fedal.
The competition comprised two main challenges. The first involved preparing a dish centered around a chosen main ingredient, beef rib-eye, alongside vegetable garnishes. For the second challenge, chefs crafted a menu spotlighting a specific ingredient, with this year’s focus being on carrots.
In the “Theme on the Tray” segment, the Moroccan team showcased roast beef sirloin paired with sweetbreads and three vegetable garnishes. In the “Theme on the Plate” challenge, they developed a three-course meal consisting of an appetizer, a scallop main course, and a carrot-inspired dessert. The jury, chaired by 2023 Bocuse d’Or winner Davy Tissot, commended the Moroccan team for their innovative techniques and rich culinary heritage.
Morocco faced competition from several teams, including Egypt, which clinched third place; Ghana; Mauritius, which secured the second spot; and Senegal. This event highlighted the culinary potential of the African continent and promoted cross-border collaboration, celebrating Africa’s rich and varied cuisine.
As part of the Africa Top Chefs Tournament, Bocuse d’Or Africa 2024 illuminated the exceptional culinary talent available across the continent. The winners of this competition will go on to represent Africa at the prestigious SIRHA fair in Lyon in 2025, following the Bocuse d’Or Americas Regional Final where top contenders emerged from the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Morocco’s success reinforces its position as a key player in African gastronomy, showcasing its culinary artistry on both the continental and global stages.
