Columbia Gumbo

A group of Howard County students took 5th in a prestigious national cooking competition. Working with chef Marc Dixon of Cafe de Paris, they concocted a Maryland, America in Miniature menu that offers a taste of our community.

From an account on the school system's Web site, the kids had one hour to prepare this feast:

Their Italian influenced appetizer was Lump Crabmeat Stuffed Ravioli and Maryland Rockfish Fingers with an Edamame Succotash served in a Dijon Scented Marinara Sauce. This was followed by Glazed Pork Tenderloin with Apple Stuffing; Okra, Julienne Carrots and Celery, a Fluffy Potato Pancake Served on a Bed of Seasoned Mustard Greens and Finished with a Grain Mustard Studded Pork Demi-Glaze, showcasing African American cuisine. The menu finished with a dessert of Hispanic flair that included a Cream-filled Chocolate Empanada served with a Warm Fresh Berry Compote and Sabayon Sauce and Garnished with Toasted Pistachio Nuts.

I'm hungry already!

For their efforts, the kids received a $500 scholarship from Coca-Cola, and $300 in culinary tools.