Aspiring young Allamakee County chefs take part in 4-H Food Challenge

Allamakee County 4-H’ers embarked on a new challenge recently. The 4-H Food Challenge was held April 21 at the Allamakee County Farm Bureau Building in Waukon.  “The 4-H Food Challenge was created to encourage 4-H’ers to explore multiple baking and cooking options, learn menu planning, and place setting skills,” stated Kris Fahey, Allamakee County 4-H Youth Coordinator. “In the past, 4-H’ers have been limited to exhibiting food items at the fair that do not require refrigeration. Now, the 4-H Food Challenge event opens the door to more baking and cooking opportunities.”
Participants in the 4-H Food Challenge create a healthy, well-balanced menu, prepare one food item from that menu, and design a place setting to complement their menu. Participants are judged on their ability to understand the principles of food preparation, meal planning, and table setting.
Youth competing in this year’s Challenge were Theresa Lensing, daughter of Denis and Clara Lensing of Postville; Emily Hammel, daughter of Charles and Deb Hammel of Dorchester; and Katelyn Leiran, daughter of Steve and Nancy Leiran of Waterville.
Hammel received two Blue awards, Leiran received an Achievement award, and Lensing received Honorable Mention. Lensing’s place setting will be considered as a possible exhibit to go on to the Iowa State Fair during 4-H Conference Judging held during the Allamakee County Fair July 17.
The formation of the 4-H Food Challenge and Chef’s Club was the brainchild of 4-H volunteers Jodi Larson and Clara Lensing. “We wanted to provide a hands-on environment which stresses the fundamentals, as well as teach youth how to prepare traditional and time-saving dishes," states Lensing. The club, consisting of boys and girls in grades 4-12, meets monthly. During their meetings, youth have learned how to set a place setting; make homemade bread and pie crusts; prepare authentic Italian, Mexican and Irish foods, and holiday favorites.  Other projects slated for upcoming meetings are food canning, cake decorating, and dining etiquette.
For more information about the Allamakee County 4-H Program, contact Kris Fahey at the ISU Extension Office, 563-568-6345.