It was a glamorous and mysterious affair at this year’s Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry Singapore (SwissCham) Gala Dinner. Held on Nov 12 at Capitol Theater @Kempinski, the theme for the annual gala dinner was “Mystère”, which meant that the programme and menu remained a mystery until the event itself.
The aim, according to organisers, was to evoke “a sense of wonder and the unknown” while promising something exciting, especially that of a better future. For the guests, including over 300 top-level Swiss executives based in Singapore, the theme created an enigmatic and exciting atmosphere (some even arrived with Venetian masks).
All was soon revealed. The event was honoured by the presence of distinguished guests, including managing director of the Singapore Economic Development Board, Jacqueline Poh; Ambassador of Switzerland to Singapore and Brunei, H.E. Frank Grütter; and SwissCham chair, Julie Raneda.
The evening highlighted the commendable green initiatives and achievements of SwissCham members where their efforts contributed significantly to reducing carbon footprints, adopting renewable energy sources, and implementing eco-friendly practices.
Food for thought
While guests were entertained by the Gold Singers and mentalist Tom Devoe throughout the evening, the culinary offerings proved to be a talking point.
It was a plant-based gala menu.
The decision to serve such a menu was to align with the Swiss business community’s dedication to sustainability and net-zero initiatives.
Presented by GoodFoodPeople, SaladStop!’s dedicated plant-based brand, guests were treated to an epicurean journey that redefined traditional gala dining with a visual feast. It proved that plant-based dishes are not only versatile and flavourful but also exceptionally refined, healthful and environmentally conscious.
The 100 percent planted-based four-hands menu by SaladStop!’s chefs Cao Hui and Daniel Lu began with the amuse bouche Wide Awake Garden. The carrot puree base was complemented by the crispness of broccoli, asparagus, and purple cauliflower. Delivering a symphony of freshness and zest, it was the perfect wake-up call for taste buds.
This was followed by Baby Beet Tartare where delicate baby beetroot took center stage. The dish was accompanied by microgreens, a saffron dip, and fried capers for a delightful crunch.
For the main course, guests had two choices – Mystère en Croute and Cruising the Green Seas. Mystère en Croute stole the spotlight with plant-based beef, asparagus, velvety butternut puree and tomatoes, while Cruising the Green Seas was a wholesome dish of Puy lentils surrounded by roasted endives and butternut puree.
In all, it was a voyage of flavours, proving that plant-based dining can be both delicious and healthy.
A dessert buffet sponsored by The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore, a cheese selection by Huber’s, and premium rums and cocktails by The Alpinist provided the finishing touches to a satisfying meal. The gala ended on a high with a lucky draw that included the top prize of a return-trip business class ticket sponsored by Swiss Airlines. Guests, however, continued to dance and party long into the night filled with music and drinks.
Convenient, plant-based meals If you are looking for fresh, healthy foods that’s also good for the environment, try GoodFoodPeople by SaladStop!. It specialises in home-cooked plant-based ready-to heat-meals such as Kung Pao Chicken (made with SGProtein), Spicy Chorizo Meatballs (a special blend of Karana jackfruit and Fable shiitake mushrooms) and Beef Rendang (using Fable mushrooms). Available online and in major supermarkets like Cold Storage and Little Farms. |
