On March 29, the 17th annual Junior Iron Chef VT took place at the Champlain Valley Exposition. Essex High School participated in this yearly event for the first time. 

Coach Julie Shaw, Essex High School Foods teacher, and students Avery Cain, Nina De Luna, Will Haslam, Claire Charbonneau, and Emma Cross represented team Hornet Hibachi. They presented a dish called No Cap Mushroom Tacos with Vermont Rainbow Slaw and Pickled Onions.

The two different heats of the competition were judged for three different awards. “Crowd-Pleaser” went to the team that had the food with the best color, texture, and taste. “Lively Local” went to the team that best highlighted Vermont foods, and “Mise En Place” was awarded to the team that displayed the best teamwork, order, and professionalism. 

Hornet Hibachi did not win any of these awards, but was a top contender for the competition.

Freshman Emma Cross was satisfied with the results regardless of winning or losing. 

“I am already so proud of all the work that we put into it that I’m not too sad at all,” Cross said. “It was an incredible experience, and I am so happy to have this opportunity to compete. I am so thankful for my whole team and coach.”