Students from Kearny High School’s culinary arts program recently faced a thrilling challenge in the first-ever Food War. Under the guidance of instructor Jessica Barone, the student-chefs had just one hour to put their twist on risotto.
Barone emphasized the importance of handling pressure. “Pressure is part of life,” she noted. Learning to perform in stressful situations prepares students for future professional demands.
Each dish was a unique creation, showcasing flavors from balsamic caramelized onion risotto with chicken to a dish playfully dubbed “Mary Me Chicken.” Barone pointed out the complexity of risotto preparation, which requires constant attention and skill.
“I think this is a really fun experience for my class,” said participant Luccas Pessoa. He expressed his confidence, backed by previous practice sessions.
The dishes were judged by local professionals, including Sarah Guzman, a former culinary student. “It’s impressive to see how far the program has come,” Guzman remarked about the state-of-the-art kitchen facilities.
Judges provided constructive feedback, aiming to help the budding chefs improve. Superintendent Flora Encarnacao highlighted the real-world benefits of such experiences, as many students aspire to careers in the food industry.
Barone expressed pride in her students for embracing the challenge and being open to feedback. Their efforts paid off, with Team 4 emerging as the winners of this exciting competition.
Culinary programs like Kearny High’s are vital in preparing students for careers in the culinary field. According to a recent study by the National Restaurant Association, the restaurant industry is projected to create over 1.3 million jobs by 2030. This growing industry highlights the importance of hands-on experience for aspiring cooks.
In today’s fast-paced job market, experiences like the Food War Challenge can make a significant difference. They not only build skills but also foster resilience and creativity in young professionals, setting them up for future success in any career.
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