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Written by BRIANNE EICHMAN - pr@timespubs.com
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Thursday, 22 July 2010 02:29 |
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FORT WAYNE — The aroma from Tobin Smith’s teriyaki chicken seeped through the tent Wednesday at the Allen County Fairgrounds.
Smith, 9, was preparing his chicken, along with pineapple skewers and grilled watermelon with honey and lemon lime sauce on it as part of the 4-H BBQ Contest at the Allen County Fair.
There were 15 participants set their grill and recipes to the test before a panel of three judges.
Contestants had a grill and table set up and prepared for their theme.
Tobin even had cornhusks and grilled sesame oil topped potatoes. Lemonade also was sitting on the table to make the theme complete.
“I like it that you can put any flavoring that you want on it, and it can still taste good,” Tobin said.
The meals ranged in flavor and theme. Thirteen year old Grant Hood was prepared breakfast on the grill, including sausage, eggs, bacon and hash browns.
Participants ranged from 3rd grade through 12th grade. They were split into three categories including beginner, intermediate and advanced. The higher level the participant was at, the more they were expected to cook.
“They have to know how long it’s going to take,” said 4-H board president Marijane Crowe, “They tell the judge ahead of time that if it takes 30 minutes, it should be done in 30 minutes.”
Once their food is done, they raise their hand for a judge.
Dale Pace, one of the three judges, described what it takes for the kids to be good grill masters.
“Good flavor, good seasoning and properly cooked meats or vegetables,” Pace said. “It’s really a lot of fun and these kids take it seriously. Some of these recipes are just remarkable.”
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