Crafting Gelato Excellence: Equip and Master the Art of Gelato

A Two-Day Journey into the Heart of Gelato Craftsmanship

The past few days were a delightful immersion into the world of artisanal gelato at the "Crafting Gelato Excellence: Equip and Master the Art of Gelato" workshop held last May 6-7, 2025, here at Fabtech’s new commissary in Makati. Organized with precision and heart, this immersive two-day workshop brought together gelato enthusiasts, aspiring entrepreneurs, and seasoned food enthusiasts to dive deep into the artistry and science behind true Italian gelato. Guided by the expertise of Chef Giacomo Schiavon – renowned Gelato Chef, the event promised to unveil the secrets behind creating gelato that transcends the ordinary.

Day One: Laying the Foundation with Knowledge

The event began with a warm welcome and a taste of a unique Filipino-Italian fusion flavor – Champorado Gelato, as attendees were introduced to the history and philosophy behind Italian gelato. The morning sessions focused on theory—understanding the delicate balance of ingredients, sugar, fats, and air that make gelato distinct from ice cream.

Participants explored a variety of sample flavors, including Stracciatella and Gianduia, as they delved into balancing ingredients and the nuances of using different bases.

One highlight was a short talk from Chef Jackie Sy Go, Chairwoman of Fabtech Group, shedding light on the advanced capabilities IceTeam1927 Cattabriga equipment, a brand synonymous with authentic Italian gelato craftsmanship. The presence of Fabtech, known for its commitment to professional-grade gelato equipment, emphasized the importance of using the right tools in achieving consistent gelato excellence.

As the day progressed, participants dove into the practical. Under the expert guidance of seasoned instructors, they learned how to operate professional gelato machines, measure with precision, and start crafting vibrant flavors like Vegan Chocolate, Mango, and Raspberry Cheesecake.

The day concluded with an engaging group breakout session, setting the stage for the next day's highly anticipated "Battle of the Chocolate Gelato." This collaborative preparation sparked creativity and anticipation for the friendly competition ahead.

Day Two: Hands-On, Hearts In – The Gelato Comes Alive

If Day 1 was about theory and technique, Day 2 was about pushed boundaries and encouraged creativity. The morning opened with a discussion on gelato balancing, setting the stage for each group to craft their unique chocolate-based creation.

The afternoon was electric with energy as the "Battle of the Chocolate Gelato" commenced. The room turned into a flurry of collaboration, with each team deep in the process of perfecting their chocolate gelato entries. The “Battle of the Chocolate Gelato” brought energy, laughter, and passionate debate as the teams worked under time pressure—showcasing everything they learned, transforming premium ingredients, undoubtedly sourced with the quality that Gruppo Dolci is known for, into unique chocolate gelato masterpieces.

Powered by Passion and Excellence

This "Crafting Gelato Excellence" workshop was a truly enriching experience. It beautifully blended the essential theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on application. The expertise shared, coupled with the quality equipment highlighted by Fabtech and the premium ingredients emphasized by Gruppo Dolci, provided a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to create exceptional Italian-style gelato. It was a testament to the passion and dedication of everyone involved, leaving us inspired and ready to craft our own gelato excellence.

The success of this event has reaffirmed the value of experiential, heart-driven learning in the culinary world. We are excited to continue hosting more sessions, workshops, and events that celebrate craftsmanship and community. Together, these brands brought the best of Italy’s gelato culture to local shores—empowering the next generation of gelato artisans in the Philippines.

Whether you came as a curious beginner or a seasoned professional, the experience reminded us all: true gelato isn’t just made—it’s crafted, with knowledge, heart, and the best tools in hand.

Until next time, keep crafting with heart. 🍨

Interested in joining our next gelato workshop or learning more about artisan techniques? Follow us on Facebook: Fabtech Group of Companies, Instagram: @fabtechphilippines