Five chefs will go skillet-to-skillet when the Chattanooga Market holds its annual Lodge Cast Iron Cook-Off in First Tennessee Pavilion, 1826 Carter St., on Sunday, Aug. 25.
An event popular with foodies of all ages, this cook-off is much like Food Network's "Chopped." Five prominent and rising chefs must use their culinary skill to create an entree using a mystery ingredient revealed to them at the cook-off. The chefs will have to be creative and quick-thinking since they will not be able to plan or prepare ahead of time.
Lodge Cast Iron Cook-Off Competitors
› Hardin Cowan — Acropolis Grill› Wesley True — Bald Headed Bistro› Tom Zurawsky — Kenny’s Southside Sandwiches› Nick Thiers — American Culinary Federation› Michael Price – Old Gilman Grill
Arriving Sunday morning armed with their Lodge cast-iron cookware, serving dishes and little more, the market provides each chef with a pantry of basic items (salt, sugar, flour), mystery ingredient and a modest budget so that they may shop market vendors for the remaining ingredients they need to prepare their meals.
Chefs will be introduced at 11:30 a.m., then they have about a half-hour to shop. David Karnes from WRCB will provide the play-by-play during the hour the chefs have to cook. The entrees will be judged on presentation, taste and creativity.
Market patrons get to watch as the chefs shop, cook and present their meals to the judges. It's a good way to learn a new thing or two to try at home.
The winner of the Lodge Cast Iron Cook-Off will receive a Golden Ticket into the 2020 World Food Championships.