Steamwhistle!

Six fabulous chef students competed for the prize in the Steamwhistle Comfort Foods for the Everyday Gourmet contest.

Steamwhistle Everyday Gourmet Contest and Winners

What an exciting day at Liaison College where six finalists tested their creations for a panel of judges to award the top three winners in the Winter Comfort Foods for the Everyday Gourmet – Cooking with Steam Whistle.

The competitors arrived (despite serious traffic woes on the 400) and after a brief overview of the day’s agenda, proceeded with the mise en place for their recipes. Each competitor was assigned a table and cooking area and the cook-off was underway by 10:30 am.

With six very diverse recipes underway and only 2 hours to the deadline, the tension quickly mounted while the judges kept a watchful eye on events. Each chef had devised their plan of action, but working away from their usual kitchens, they had to be ready for the unexpected and be prepared to compromise and adapt. But would the judges notice?

You bet! Food safety and handling, style and technique, presentation and taste, all counted and the judges took note of the slightest deviation from good practice.

After two hours of prepping and cooking, the final plates were ready for presentation and final judging.

The judges took their places in the judging room where the plates were assembled according to competitor number. As they deliberated and tasted, they made notes ranking each plate relative according to how well the finished effect rated for texture, mix of flavours, taste, plating, and portions.

Meanwhile, the spectators eagerly watched through the plate glass window, and make their own decisions and predictions.

In the end, there could be only three winners in this very close race. The judges debriefed all competitors and provided constructive criticism.

• First Place: Chantha Hack – Hamilton Campus – Steam Whistle Braised Pork Belly
• Second Place: James Kirkland – Barrie Campus – Drunken Spicy Steam Whistle Shrimp
• Third Place: Michelle Krasovec – Kitchener Campus – Steam Whistle Chowder
• Honorable Mention: Ryan Phillips for his very unique "Steam Whistle Ice Cream"

Kudos to all recipe entries and competitors and winners. Well done!