PICTURES: Two in a row for Lisa Williams at World Porridge Making Championship

A cafe owner from Suffolk has been crowned World Porridge Making Champion after beating competitors from around the world at Carrbridge at the weekend.

Lisa Williams, who runs Stennetts Community Cafe in Trimley St Mary won the Golden Spurtle in 2019 the last time that the competition took place in person.

Mrs Williams was amongst 26 competitors competing for the highly-coveted title of World Porridge Making Champion and the Golden Spurtle trophy at its 29th outing.

Following five heats, the final cook off included competitors from Australia, Iceland, Cyprus, Scotland and England.

Mrs Williams said: “I can’t put into words how delighted I am. I came to Carrbridge thinking that I was saying goodbye to the Golden Spurtle trophy, and I can’t believe that I am taking it home with me again.

"It has been so lovely being back in the village seeing everyone. There’s great camaraderie amongst the competitors, and the whole event is so friendly and welcoming."

The title of World Porridge Making Champion is awarded to the contestant deemed to have made the best traditional porridge using just three ingredients – oatmeal, water and salt.

Entries are judged for appearance, texture, colour and taste.

This year’s judges included former Gleneagles Executive Chef, Neil Mugg; Scottish MasterChef finalist Sarah Rankin and New Zealander Kirsten Gilmour, owner of KJ’s Bothy Bakery in Grantown.

Neil Mugg, chair of the judging panel, said: “Lisa’s porridge was really well made. Rich, flavourful, well seasoned and the perfect consistency."

In addition to the main competition, the title of Speciality Porridge Champion is awarded to the creator of a sweet or savoury dish where oatmeal can be combined with any other ingredients.

This year’s speciality winner was Chris Young, owner of street food and events caterer The Rolling Stove, who wowed the judges with his porridge noodles two ways, with hand-dived seared scallops and caramelised figs.

The 2022 World Porridge Making Championship was held in person for the first time since 2019.

A virtual speciality competition was held in 2020 and 2021 during the pandemic.

The competition is organised by volunteers from the Carrbridge and Vicinity Community, and is sponsored by Hamlyns of Scotland, producers of Hamlyns Scottish Oatmeal and Hamlyns Scottish Porridge Oats.

Karen Henderson, the main organiser of the 2022 World Porridge Making Championship said: “It has been wonderful to have porridge fans, their supporters and so many visitors in a very packed Carrbridge village hall over the weekend.

"What started very much as a small local event has grown to be a highlight of Scotland’s food and drink calendar, and it has been fantastic being able to welcome back visitors from around the world again."

Alan Meikle, Director of sponsors, Hamlyns of Scotland said: “The World Porridge Making Championships is a wonderful celebration of one of Scotland’s most traditional foods, and we have loved seeing everyone’s passion for porridge, and the versatility of oats at this year’s championships. Congratulations to Lisa and Chris and to the organisers for another excellent event."

Read a full round-up and more photos in the Strathy out on Thursday.

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.