Chef – Flavor Development Specialist

Job Title: Chef – Flavor Development Specialist

Location: Kuku King Quick Service Restaurant

Reports To: Head of Kitchen Operations

Key Responsibilities:

Recipe Development and Innovation:

• Develop unique, proprietary spice blends and marinades, with a focus on signature items like fried and Peri Peri grilled chicken.

• Conduct research on flavor trends, drawing inspiration from East African and global cuisines, to blend cultural authenticity with modern tastes.

• Test and refine recipes to ensure consistency in flavor, texture, and quality, adapting Peri Peri techniques to align with the Kuku King brand.

Quality Control:

• Set and maintain standards for all spice and marinade recipes, ensuring flavor consistency and high-quality standards in every batch.

• Conduct regular taste tests and make adjustments as necessary to achieve the desired flavor profile, especially for popular items like Peri Peri Chicken.

• Collaborate closely with the kitchen team to oversee the application of spice blends and marinades, ensuring adherence to recipe guidelines and cooking techniques.

Ingredient Sourcing and Management:

• Source high-quality spices and ingredients that align with Kuku King’s brand values, including ingredients for authentic Peri Peri marinades.

• Manage inventory, tracking quantities, storage conditions, and freshness to optimize flavor quality and minimize waste.

• Work with local suppliers to identify fresh, authentic ingredients that enhance our signature flavors and meet budget requirements.

Training and Collaboration:

• Train kitchen staff on the preparation and application of proprietary spice blends, marinades, and Peri-Peri techniques.

• Collaborate with kitchen staff to incorporate new flavors into menu items and seasonal promotions and ensure quality across all dishes.

• Provide input and support during new menu launches, maintaining the high standards of Kuku King’s culinary profile.

Health and Safety Compliance:

• Adhere to strict food safety and sanitation guidelines in the preparation, storage, and handling of spices and ingredients.

• Implement procedures to prevent cross-contamination, particularly with spicy ingredients, and maintain a clean and safe working environment.

Continuous Improvement and Experimentation:

• Stay updated on culinary trends and experiment with new flavors and cooking techniques, particularly those related to Peri Peri and other popular chicken styles.

• Gather customer feedback and incorporate insights into recipe refinement, ensuring the menu remains fresh and appealing.

Qualifications:

• Experience: Minimum 5 years as a chef, preferably in a fast-casual or quick-service setting, with specific experience in Peri Peri Chicken preparation and spice blending.

• Education: Degree or diploma in culinary arts, food science, or a related field is preferred.

Skills:

• Expertise in seasoning techniques, spice profiles, and Peri Peri and Fried Chicken marinades.
• Strong ability to create, test, and refine recipes with attention to quality and consistency.
• Excellent communication skills to train kitchen staff and work effectively with the team.
• In-depth knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.

Desired Attributes:

• Creativity: A passion for exploring and creating memorable, distinctive flavors.

• Attention to Detail: Precise approach to ingredient measurement, recipe accuracy, and consistency.

• Cultural Awareness: Understanding of East African and global cuisines to produce flavors that are both authentic and innovative.