The American Culinary Federation (ACF) Tallahassee held a Jr. Chef cook off June 6, 2005 at the Capital Culinary Institute at Keiser College. Chef Matrell (Owner Specialties Gourmet) and Chef Noel (University Center Club) took the stage to create as many entrees as they could in 1.5 hours. They were assisted by Chef Instructors Pam Manley (My Secret Chef) and Chef Rebecca Babbitt (Rebecca Babbitt Catering), respectively. The competition was judged by Chef Keating (Dean of Culinary Arts at Keiser College), and Chef Cross (Master Baker).
The format was mystery box where both contestants were presented with a whole chicken, local fruits and vegetables, pasta and a fully stocked pantry that held basic ingredients and spices.
The slide show below shows Chef Matrell preparing the winning dishes.
"I was very nervous about this competition because I felt the stakes were pretty high", said Chef Matrell. "Not only was I competing for the experience, I was competing against a former student that was considered one of Keiser's best, and I wanted to win. The fact that it is was my birthday, my mom, and my date were present, and a major storm was brewing, did not help matters either.I actually had a great time, Chef Noel was a strong competitor. I cannot wait to compete again."
Chef Matrell and Chef Noel took center stage in plain view of their family and friends and did a great job pulling together entrees for presentation. Chef Matrell put together three dishes and earned the win in an intense battle. Her dishes were artfully prepared and included combinations of:
Country style fried chicken, grilled chicken, parsley and garlic mashed potatoes, sweet potato fries , snow peas, sauteed broccoli w/garlic, papaya salsa, and pasta salad.
The contestants were judged on sanitation, plate presentation, timing and taste.
Congratulations to Chef Matrell for a job well done!
