That's the spirit wer're looking for. I'll contact my "assistant" and see when he's available. And here's a thought. we don't all have to cook our meals on the same date as they will be judged by pictures, list of ingredients, and a blow-by-blow explanation of cooking techniques used. We just have to make sure we submit the meal by an agreed upon date. I will suggest that all submissions be posted by Feb. 1. Judges will do their thing and give us their results based on their own schedules as well. This elliminates the problem with time zones and will allow more people to participate. And it also will give the judges time required to judge accurately, based on the number of entries.
The submissions must include several pictures of all foods prepared and plated, and will include a detailed explanation of cooking techniques, and a list of ingredients used for each dish. Each submission must include at least one main dish, two sides, and a desert. All dishses must include the theme ingredient, including the desert and should task the contestant to expand his/her cooking skills.
As was suggested, a ceiling of $25 U.S. is allowed for ingredient purchase, with common ingredients to your own pantry allowed for seasonings, herbs, and spices. In other words, if you normally have truffle oil in your pantry, go ahead and use it. If you normally have Panko bread-crumbs in your pantry, use them as well. But if prepared demi-glace isn't in there, you would have to dip into that $25 dollar spending limit to purchase it.
The honor system is th rule here. And since this is about expanding your cooking abilities, and competing in a freindly and fun way with your fellow DC freinds, no cheating.
It should be allowable to have family members or freinds assist the contestant in food preperation. But please don't invite your next door neighbor who is a chef at the nearby 5-star restaurant. You wouldn't be expressing your own creativity.
I think that about sums it up. And if something you are trying flops, then admit that in your submission. Maybe it was a great idea and just needs a bit of tweeking. And we can all help with that.
In my case, I will try to create new dishes without the aid of cookbooks, relying on present skills and cooking knowledge.
Seeeeeeya; Goodweed of the North