On Friday, 21st February, 2020, the R.C Diocesan Youth Commission kick-started its 2020 calendar of activities with an inter-parish Youth Cook-Off, the second of its kind since it was introduced in 2018. The parking lot of the Catholic Pastoral Centre came alive with youths from throughout the diocese, who came armed with coal pots, grills and pots and pans; ready to show off their cooking skills.
Eager to complete the challenge of preparing a three-course meal over open flame, the aroma of bubbling soups, grilled meats and the delightful sights of glazed desserts soon enveloped the Edinboro residence and teased the appetites of the many patrons who came out to support their parish teams.
The ‘Focussed Five’ who represented the Holy Family Parish snatched the first-place position from St. Michael’s Parish, the previous winners, after they wowed all with their five-star presentation of cream of pumpkin soup with garlic bread, chicken alfredo pasta and a delectable apple pie. Second place went to the youths from the Cathedral Parish whose menu of egg drop soup, chicken kebabs and a twist on banana s’mores was judged the most creative; while the ‘Determined Divas’ from Corpus Christi Parish were awarded the third place. Their bubbly spirits were as lively as their dishes of callaloo soup, sweet and sour chicken with vegetable rice and a sugar dusted donut.
Other delightful dishes that patrons were privy to sampling were a lobster linguini presented by St. Michael’s Parish, as well as a donut dripping with chocolate glaze and a succulent grilled chicken served with a kale salad both of which were prepared by the two teams from St. John’s Parish.
Though they did not participate this year, the youths from St. Benedict’s Parish played games of dominoes and cards while they waited for the opportunity to sample the many dishes – the aroma of which excited their appetites.
In spite of the many delicious foods, the enthusiasm, the camaraderie, the fellowship, the teamwork and the bonds fostered, were the components of an outstanding recipe that made the night a memorable one. Congratulations to all the participants and kudos to the winners!