The leading culinary institution in India, the International Institute of Culinary Arts (IICA) in New Delhi, has revealed a collaborative venture with the Economic and Commercial Office of the Embassy of Spain in New Delhi. Together, they are set to introduce the ICEX Spanish Pantry Program in India.
The partnership was formalized on September 11, 2023, through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) by Arjun S Datta, Managing Director and COO of IICA, and Lucía Paternina, Chief Economic and Commercial Counsellor at the Economic and Commercial Office of the Embassy of Spain in New Delhi, alongside other officials from both sides.
Prominent figures in attendance at the event comprised Virender S Datta, the founder and chairman of IICA, Victor Sinovas, the Commercial Attaché from the Embassy of Spain in New Delhi, as well as Clara Antúnez and Diego Moreno, both serving as International Trade and Investment Advisors at the Embassy of Spain in New Delhi.
The ICEX Spanish Pantry Program is the first course to offer complete immersion in the most emblematic food products found in a Spanish pantry. It is designed for professionals in the food and beverage sectors who wish to explore the quality, variety, and authenticity of Spain’s food products, as well as their culinary uses.
Delivered entirely in English through an online platform, this course encompasses a wide range of subjects, including olive oil, cheese, wine, ham, saffron, paprika, and more. Additionally, it includes instruction in both traditional and contemporary Spanish culinary techniques and recipes.
As part of their curriculum and ongoing professional development, students and faculty members at IICA will enjoy exclusive access to this course.
“The partnership is a significant step for IICA and its mission to provide world-class culinary education in India,” said Datta.
He expressed that the program will enhance the knowledge and skills of IICA students and faculty members, while also fostering awareness and a deep appreciation for Spanish cuisine among consumers in India.
Paternina emphasized that the partnership underscores the robust bilateral ties between Spain and India, particularly within the gastronomic realm. She pointed out that the program will shine a spotlight on the variety and opulence of Spanish food products and culture while promoting collaboration and knowledge exchange between culinary professionals from Spain and India. The inaugural session of the ICEX Spanish Pantry Program is slated to commence at IICA, New Delhi, in October 2023.