8/9/13 - Two local chefs went head-to-head last night to prove the greatness of their gastronomy and raise money for charity at the 9th annual Iron Chef competition. The event benefits the Gleaners Community Food Bank of Livingston County. Hundreds of spectators gathered to watch Mexicali Allies chef and owner Sandy Blake face off against Oak Pointe Country Club Executive Chef Patrick Srock in a contest to create the best appetizer, entrée, and dessert using a specially selected secret ingredient. This yearâs special ingredient was Better Made potato chips, chosen because it is a Michigan product with a plant very near the main Gleaners facility in Detroit. Although Blake took the peopleâs choice award and got the highest points for the dessert portion, it was Srock who won the competition with his crab cake appetizer, grilled salmon entrée, and liquid nitrogen ice cream. He says he was glad to redeem himself after losing last yearâs competition, but mostly is glad to contribute to the fundraising event and help the community. Last yearâs champion, Tammy Young, decided not to enter the competition again after winning for the second year in a row. The event raised money through a silent auction as well as ticket sales. With hundreds of people in attendance, organizers hoped to raise $100,000, which would fill five semi-trucks with food. The money will be used to fund Gleanersâ Shared Harvest Pantry, which stocks a retail-style store for families in need to gather food. (TD)
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