Willowbrook catering students showcase creativity and skills during culinary challenge

On Dec. 4, students in Willowbrook Career and Technical Education (CTE) teacher Amy Nowak’s Culinary Arts 3 and 4- Catering classes participated in a culinary competition called “Chopped Challenge – Global Street Food Edition."

To view a photo gallery of the event, see the images above.

For the contest, students worked in teams to create a “savory dish” and a “dessert dish.” They had 90 minutes to plan, cook and plate the food. Participants had to include the “mystery basket” ingredients below, and they also could use items from the shared pantry. The chefs had to incorporate a surprise ingredient as well. The goal was to produce dishes that reflect a global street food vibe – portable, bold and flavorful.

Savory Challenge (Street Food-Inspired Dish):

• Ground beef or ground turkey
• Pineapple
• Bell peppers
• Soy sauce

Dessert Challenge (Sweet Street Treat):

• Coconut milk
• Lime
• Brown sugar
• Rice cereal

Bonus Challenge (Surprise Ingredient): Flamin' Hot Cheetos 

Willowbrook staff members served as judges, and they evaluated the dishes based on appearance, flavor, plating and creativity. The winners are junior Christian Saddler and senior Julian Vazquez, with their empanada and milk shake.