MasterChef: The Professionals to feature head chef at Co Tyrone restaurant

A Co Down chef is ready to show off her skills as she takes part in the new series of MasterChef: The Professionals.

Lauren Shimmin will appear in the final week of the heats of the famed cooking show where she and three other chefs will don their whites to confront two demanding tasks.

Airing on BBC One at 9pm on Monday, November 18, Lauren will be hoping she has got what it takes to make it to the last quarter-final of this series.

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Lauren is currently the head chef at The Tailor's House in Ballygawley, Co Tyrone and the team have shared their support for her ahead of the show.

They said: "We’ve been keeping a secret. We’re thrilled to announce that our very own Head Chef Lauren Shimmin will be competing on this years MasterChef: The Professionals.

"Tune in on Monday 18th November at 9pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer to see how she does. Proud of you Chef Lauren Shimmin."

Here is what you need to know about Lauren ahead of MasterChef: The Professionals:

Chef Bio

Thirty-six-year-old Lauren has been a chef for 20 years. She grew up Bangor with her parents and younger brother. She worked her way up from commis chef, then in 2012 took on her first head chef role. She currently lives above the restaurant where she works in Ballygawley and has a fiancée, Nicola.

Current and previous experience

After finishing school at 16, Lauren went on to do a Level 2 NVQ in Professional Cookery at Newtownards Technical College. Her first kitchen job was at Jenny Watts, in Bangor. She worked her way up to her first head chef role at Groomsport Inn, Bangor and continued to work across Northern Ireland until two years ago when she took on her current role at The Tailor’s House as their Head Chef.

Who and what inspired you to become a chef?

“My mother and grandmother weren't the best of cooks, and I loved to eat so, as soon as I was able, I was cooking dinner every day after school. I learnt through enjoying eating and it all started from there.”

How would you describe your style of cooking and any influences on it?

“I am all about flavour. I love to cure and brine meats. I concentrate a lot on getting the balance correct and bringing out the best of the ingredients. I’ve really developed my own style over the last few years. I’d say it’s modern Irish with a focus on seasonality, locality with some playful twists.”

Why did you want to take part in MasterChef: The Professionals?

“I have been cooking a long time and I just feel really settled in where I am now. I’ve really shaped the food and the menu and it’s doing well so that has given me the confidence to apply. I feel like, why not!”

Outside of cooking what are your passions?

“Other than cooking, I love walking, the gym, music, family, and reading . I love exploring Ireland and the old buildings it has. I’m fascinated by history and stories of who lived in different places and buildings."

Watch Lauren on MasterChef: The Professionals on BBC iPlayer and BBC One from Monday 18 November at 9pm

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