Iron Chef Cullen

The second annual Iron Chef Cullen was Jan 1, 2012. (I think  another new cullen holiday tradition).

Welcome to Iron Chef Cullen. A delectable Japanese tradition has taken root on American soil. We have been graced with our own kitchen stadium where our mother has brought together the pugnent flavors of east and west. It is here where the best of the best meet for the ultimate challenge. Today's secret ingredient is........

  PECANS! And now America, in an open heart and empty stomach, I say onto you in the words of my Uncle (or of the uncle of the chairman in tv's Iron chef)......ALE CUISINE!

 The boys finished in record time and then "rock paper scissor"-ed for the chance to present first. The judging categories were: Taste, Originality, Plating and Cleanliness

 Peter's appetizer- a hand tossed salad with pecans, cheese, croutons, wheat thin crackers, cucumbers, red cabbage and carrots (from the bag), and bacon bits. He forgot he also wanted pomegranits and sunflower seeds but he was in such a hurry. He went with the two dish approach when plating so he could add color and texture by circling the bowl with carrots. His main course was pan seared steak with seasoning and pecans. Note the super fancy plate.

 Jamison's appetizer was nacho cheese dip with pecans for texture also plated with a bowl/plat combo. His main course was his pecan, cheese and lettuce wraps. When he learned that he needed a protien he chose chicken strips with pecans sprinkled on the top fisnished with herbs de provence.

 The score and the title of Iron Chef Cullen 2012 is.....Peter! The score was again a close one 52-50. Peter inched Jamison out in the plating and originality but Jamison scored better in the cleanliness dept. Overall it was a fantastic battle and the boys are tied 1:1.

 Peter got the game of Stratego for christmas. And although we love our games here....we are on about out 20th game and I would like to play something different. Peter LOVES this game and has challenged each one of us.

 One of his strategies...he has many. Watch out!
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!