In the fast-paced world of corporate services, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration among employees is vital. Recognizing this, Intertrust, a leading trust, and corporate services company, sought a distinctive approach to team building—one that would ignite creativity, inspire connections, and celebrate diversity. Their journey led them to a remarkable virtual culinary team-building event, where they ventured into the rich and flavorful realm of Filipino cuisine alongside the talented chefs from ChefPassport.
The decision to explore Filipino cuisine was driven by a desire to introduce the team to a new culture, expand their culinary horizons, and create an environment of shared experiences. The team at Intertrust believed that the universal language of food could bridge gaps and foster meaningful connections among their employees, even from the comfort of their own kitchens.
With ChefPassport as their virtual culinary guide, the Intertrust team embarked on an adventure filled with tantalizing aromas, vibrant flavors, and unforgettable moments of collaboration. Led by the expertise of Chef Josh, a passionate advocate for Filipino cuisine, they dived into the heart of Filipino culinary traditions, all while being connected through video conferencing and digital platforms.
Despite being physically apart, the team gathered their ingredients and prepared their cooking stations in anticipation of the culinary journey ahead. Through the power of technology, they engaged in real-time interactions, following Chef Josh’s instructions, and sharing their progress and experiences with one another.
As the aroma of Pancit Bihon started to fill their kitchens, the team’s excitement grew. They chopped vegetables, stir-fried noodles, and seasoned their dishes, guided by ChefPassport and the virtual presence of their colleagues. Laughter and friendly banter filled the virtual space as they swapped stories, exchanged cooking tips, and reveled in the joy of creating Pancit Bihon together.
As the cooking process neared its end, the team proudly presented their beautifully plated Pancit Bihon dishes. Although physically separated, they felt a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie, knowing they had successfully embarked on this culinary adventure as a unified team.
Beyond the culinary delights, the team discovered the cultural richness embedded within Filipino cuisine. Chef Josh shared stories and insights into the traditions and significance of Pancit Bihon in Filipino culture, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation among the participants.
As the virtual culinary team building event concluded, the Intertrust team reflected on the impact of their shared experience. They realized that even in a virtual setting, the power of food and the connections forged through cooking transcended physical boundaries. The event created a sense of togetherness and unity, strengthening the team’s bonds despite the physical distance.
Intertrust’s virtual culinary team-building event with ChefPassport was an unforgettable journey, a celebration of flavors, connections, and cultural exchange. Through the immersive exploration of Filipino cuisine and the shared experience of cooking Pancit Bihon, the team discovered the transformative power of virtual connections, reinforcing the importance of unity and teamwork within their organization.
As they logged off from the virtual event, the Intertrust team carried with them the memories of laughter, camaraderie, and the vibrant flavors of Pancit Bihon. The virtual culinary adventure had left an indelible mark, reminding them that through the exploration of food and culture, bonds can be forged, perspectives can be broadened, and teams can thrive even in the virtual realm.
Pancit Bihon – Filipino Cuisine:
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces rice noodles (Bihon noodles)
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup green beans, sliced diagonally
- 1 cup snow peas
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Calamansi or lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large wok or skillet, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the sliced chicken breast to the wok and cook until lightly browned and cooked through. Then, add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and are cooked through.
- Add the julienned carrots, shredded cabbage, sliced green beans, and snow peas to the wok. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Push the ingredients to one side of the wok and create a space in the center. Pour the soy sauce and oyster sauce into the space and stir to combine. Gradually incorporate the sauce with the rest of the ingredients.
- Add the cooked rice noodles to the wok and gently toss them with the other ingredients until well coated with the sauce. If the noodles seem dry, you can add a little bit of chicken broth to moisten them.
- Pour the chicken broth into the wok and bring it to a simmer. Continue to cook for a few minutes until the noodles have absorbed some of the broth and are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning and sauce according to your preference.
- Once the noodles are cooked and the flavors have melded together, remove the wok from the heat.
- Serve the Pancit Bihon hot, garnished with chopped green onions. You can also squeeze calamansi or lemon juice over the noodles for added tanginess if desired.
From the aromatic adobo, a dish marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, vinegar, and spices, to the comforting sinigang, a tangy and sour soup bursting with tamarind and fresh vegetables, Filipino cuisine showcases a harmonious fusion of flavors. Each dish tells a story, drawing from the country’s history, traditions, and the warmth of family gatherings.
Filipino cuisine is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a reflection of the Filipino people’s deep sense of hospitality and generosity. The team discovered that sharing food is an integral part of Filipino culture. They were captivated by the spirit of “bayanihan,” a Filipino tradition of coming together to help one another, and how it extends to the joy of sharing delicious meals.
With ChefPassport’s corporate cooking classes, Intertrust discovered a platform where their team can embark on culinary journeys, expand their culinary skills, and strengthen their bonds. By clicking here, you can unlock a world of culinary adventures for your employees. Whether it’s a virtual or in-person experience, these cooking classes provide a remarkable opportunity to celebrate diversity, foster teamwork, and create lasting memories.
