Winners in the first Iron Skillet competition at Smokin’ on Broadway were, from left, Wenny Weiss, Karen Hayes, Rick Elliott and Diane Kuenne. Not pictured—Linda Pirog. (Johnson Publications photo)
Emcee Alex McNair introduced the judges, from left, Travis Luhrs, Andy Ohlson and Brenda Brandt. He also had a little fun with them, too. (Johnson Publications photo)
There were 17 total entries in both the divisions, including this one in the dessert division. (Johnson Publications photo)
Emma and Nate Jenkins were one of the couples who both entered dishes in the Iron Skillet competition. Emma lets people know she was out to defeat her husband, who gets a laugh out of it. (Johnson Publications photo)
Beth Falla carefully slices pieces from her dessert entry. (Johnson Publications photo)
Iron Skillet event proves to be tasty competition
There’s a definite talent to combining three ingredients into some wonderful food choices.
People who were able to sample the food creations at Saturday’s Iron Skillet competition during Smokin’ on Broadway found that out for sure.
This year’s first annual Iron Skillet, based loosely on the “Iron Chef” television show, drew 17 total entries in appetizer and dessert divisions. Eight competed with appetizers, and nine were in the dessert division.
Until last Thursday, the competitors didn’t know what ingredients they would be using. They found out during pickup times at the Lied Imperial Public Library.
Those in the appetizer division were given French bread, bacon and a yellow bell pepper.
Dessert competitors had to work with red raspberries, ricotta cheese and caramel corn.
Contest Coordinator Carolyn Lee said contestants could add any other ingredients, too, but had to include those three in their recipes. They were able to use their own ovens and stoves at home, bringing their creations to the competition judging on Saturday.
For its first-ever local competition, Lee thought it went very well.
“I thought the contestants were very creative and the public was very eager to taste their dishes,” she said.
After the winners were announced, people at the event were able to sample the appetizers and desserts.
To view more please log in or subscribe to the digital edition. https://etypeservices.com/Imperial%20RepublicanID359/