Serbian students prepare a table of specialty dishes from 11 regions across Zhejiang province. [Photo/WeChat account: zjlyzyxy]

On June 19, 24 Serbian students completed a month-long culinary and cultural course at Zhejiang Tourism Vocational College. To mark their graduation, they prepared a table of specialty dishes from 11 regions across Zhejiang province, showcasing their newly-acquired skills.

One of the highlights was the intricate preparation of thousand-layer tofu rolls, a famous Jiangsu and Zhejiang dish. Serbian student Nedeljko Piljevic found the task challenging but managed to master the technique with practice. Demonstrating his knife skills, he efficiently chopped vegetables, impressing his instructors and peers alike.

The Serbian students also showcased their culinary heritage by preparing five traditional Serbian dishes using local Chinese ingredients and techniques learned during their course.

Matej Pastva prepared a slow-roasted pork belly dish Praseca bajadera, complemented with sauce, hazelnuts, and traditional mashed potatoes. He also learned new carving and sugar art techniques, which he plans to incorporate into Serbian cuisine upon returning home.

The Serbian students received professional skill certificates from the Zhejiang Provincial Department of Human Resources and Social Security, marking the first time such certifications were awarded to foreign students in the province. The certificates qualify them to work in Chinese restaurants.

The Serbian students are the first to study culinary arts in Zhejiang as part of a new exchange program. Future exchanges are planned to enhance learning and cultural ties between the two regions.

Serbian students receive their certificates. [Photo/WeChat account: zjlyzyxy]