A competition promoting authentic Cantonese flavors and scouting culinary masters in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area will commence Sunday at Zhuhai Opera House on Yeli Island, Old Xiangzhou.

Cantonese cuisine (粤菜 Yuè cài) is the culinary style of Guangdong Province. It is regarded as the most exquisite of all eight major cuisines in China, distinguished for fresh and tender taste, extensive and innovative ingredients, and sophisticated presentation.

Nine cities in the Pearl River Delta, in addition to Hong Kong and Macao from the Greater Bay Area, will each send a talented three-member chef's team to the event. The 33 competitors will cook for the maximum prize of 50,000 yuan ($7,250) and title of Guangdong Technical Expert.

Baijiao Sea Bass dish [Photo courtesy Zhuhai Daily]

Contestants will be scored on their recipes for Baijiao Sea Bass, a National Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) product cultivated in Doumen District. The challenge will be to preserve the fresh flavor and tenderness of the fish meat while using local cooking craft. Grades will also be given on signature Cantonese dishes that should be ingenious and require unique cooking skills.

The judging panel will consist of eight experts and 30 amateurs who have passed online review.

Accompanying events include a salon focused on the gastronomic culture of Cantonese cuisine, display of Greater Bay Area delicacies, and artistic performances.