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Suffolk’s Stefan Sewell, founder of Sour Fennel Catering, and also a Chef Manager at the Royal Air Force has been crowned the winner of the inaugural Kraft Heinz Masters of the Menu chef competition – a prestigious new contest celebrating the creativity and skill of chefs from independent venues across the UK.

The competition, in partnership with chef James Cochran and the Craft Guild of Chefs, saw our talented finalists battle it out for the coveted top spot. Finalists received one-on-one mentorship from Cochran, with support from Kraft Heinz chefs,  to develop their business acumen and culinary skills, before competing in an intimate two-round cook-off for the Masters of the Menu crown.

In round one, Sewell impressed the judges with his Yakiniku Glazed Beef Cheek, a deeply flavoured celebration of Asian fusion cooking. The dish, slow-cooked and glazed with a blend of Yakiniku and Heinz Sticky Korean Barbecue Sauce, balanced sweet and smoky notes with remarkable precision, showcasing just how innovative catering chefs can be.

He then earned his spot as Kraft Heinz’s first ever Master of the Menu in round two with his Miso and Heinz Korean Barbecue Glazed Duck Breast, with a Heinz Sweet Chilli and Korean Barbecue Plum Duck Leg, Miso Golden Beetroot, Potato Rosti, Cavolo Nero stuffed with Wild Mushroom and Heinz Mild Mustard, Crispy Cavolo Nero, Sauté Oyster Mushroom and a Gizzard Duck Sauce.

Stefan took home £2,000 worth of Heinz product and a cash prize of £2,000, to help support his operation. He will also co-host an exclusive supper club with James Cochran.

Sewell said: “I’m genuinely overwhelmed. Representing both Suffolk and the RAF in this competition has been an honour, and to come away as the winner is absolutely incredible. This shows that catering chefs can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with restaurant chefs. I can’t wait to see where this opportunity takes me next and am beyond excited to work alongside James at our upcoming supper club.”

Cochran said: “The standard across the board was exceptional, but Stefan’s dish really stood out. His attention to detail, flavour and balance was spot on. It was cooking with both heart and technical skill. This is a win not just for Stefan, but for the wider catering industry too. It proves that some of the most talented and passionate chefs are working behind the scenes in places people might not expect.

Kraft Heinz has a rich legacy of providing Brits with products they love since 1886, when Heinz Tomato Ketchup was first sold in London. With 76% of consumers stating that Heinz Tomato Ketchup is of better quality than other brands, Kraft Heinz is committed to sharing this brand equity to support independent operators with a competition that offers tangible value.

Tom Franklin, UK and Ireland Heinz Away from Home Director, said: “At its core, Masters of the Menu is more than just a culinary competition, it’s a way to champion dedicated chefs from smaller operations and help build their profile within the industry. Congratulations to Stefan, a true inspiration in the kitchen and the embodiment of an innovative independent operator. We’re thrilled to celebrate his win and can’t wait to see the great work he’ll do in the future.”