Cook Full Time NEW

Position: Cook

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $77,500 to $80,500 plus superannuation per annum

Location: Hoppers Crossing VIC 3029

Our client is seeking an experienced Cook to prepare, cook and present authentic Indian cuisine to a consistently high standard in accordance with Delhi Nights’ standard recipes and menu. You will ensure the quality, freshness and timely delivery of all dishes, while maintaining food safety and hygiene standards and supporting the efficient operation of the kitchen.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

Food Preparation & Cooking

• Prepare and cook a wide range of authentic Indian dishes – including curries, dals, tandoori items, biryanis, snacks, breads (naan, roti, paratha) and sweets – in accordance with Delhi Nights’ standard recipes and menu.
• Marinate meats, poultry, seafood and paneer, and operate the tandoor (clay oven) to cook tandoori dishes and Indian breads at correct temperatures.
• Select, blend, grind and roast Indian spices and prepare the spice mixes (masalas), gravies and base sauces used across the menu.
• Examine foodstuffs and ingredients to ensure quality and freshness before use.
• Regulate temperatures of the tandoor, ovens, grills, stovetops and other cooking equipment.
• Season food during cooking and adjust flavour, consistency and spice levels to recipe and customer preference.
• Portion, plate and garnish dishes, adding gravies, sauces, raita and accompaniments for presentation and service.
• Prepare food to meet special dietary, vegetarian, vegan and allergen requirements.
• Cook food to order during service and ensure menu items are delivered promptly to maintain customer satisfaction.

Mise en Place & Stock Control

• Carry out daily mise en place – washing, peeling, cutting and preparing vegetables, meats and other ingredients ahead of service.
• Receive and check deliveries, and store food in temperature-controlled facilities, rotating stock (FIFO) to minimise waste and spoilage.
• Monitor ingredient levels and advise management of stock requirements for ordering.

Recipe & Menu Consistency

• Follow standard recipes and portion controls to ensure consistency in taste, quality and presentation across all dishes.
• Assist the Head Chef in planning, developing and refining recipes, specials and seasonal menu items reflecting authentic Indian cuisine.
• Maintain consistency in product, portioning and presentation in line with the Delhi Nights brand.

Food Safety & Hygiene

• Follow correct hygienic food handling, preparation and storage practices in line with the Food Standards Code and the venue’s food safety program.
• Maintain a high standard of cleanliness across the kitchen, work stations, equipment and storage areas.
• Comply with the restaurant’s regular cleaning and waste disposal procedures.
• Report any food safety, hygiene or equipment deficiencies to management.

Equipment & Work Environment

• Operate and maintain kitchen equipment – tandoor, ranges, fryers, food processors and refrigeration – in correct and safe working order.
• Use safe work practices, follow WHS requirements and support a safe working environment.
• Carry out routine kitchen open and close procedures.

Teamwork & Other Duties

• Work cooperatively as part of the kitchen team and communicate effectively with kitchen and floor staff during service.
• Assist with the training and guidance of kitchen hands and apprentices as required.
• Attend staff meetings and complete other reasonable related duties as directed by the Head Chef or management.

Requirements:

• Certificate III or Certificate IV in Commercial Cookery
• Diploma in Hospitality Management (would be highly regarded)
• A minimum of 12 months of prior relevant experience
• Demonstrated experience as a cook specialising in authentic Indian cuisine, including curry and tandoor preparation.
• Sound knowledge of Indian regional dishes, spices, marination and traditional cooking techniques.
• Current food safety / food handling knowledge consistent with the Food Standards Code.