Also written by Emma Weishaupl
On Thursday, April 20th, our chapter of Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) aka Culinary Club, held a salsa-making competition. Working with recipes they used in a trial-run two weeks prior, separate teams competed for the title of Salsa Champion.
The competition served as a valuable experience for freshman Kiernan Luther, whose favorite part was “learning how to cook new things and work with a team.”
Salsa recipes varied between teams, with participants given the opportunity to select their own style.
“We’re making a salsa that’s like a garden salsa, so not spicy,” said eighth grader Jack O’Connor.
In terms of prep, O’Connor said that his team “researched all the different salsa recipes we could find.”
Eighth-grader Navaeh Secrest took on the challenge of making a classic chunky salsa. Even though she worked alone, her logical thinking and confidence made her a formidable force.
“My aunt taught me how to cut all these really quickly and efficiently. So I know how to do it good on my own.”
Junior Owen McGough noted the challenge of the competition. “The safety aspect [was difficult] because there’s a lot of things you have to keep in mind while doing it to avoid getting points docked.”
However, all teams agreed that there was much to be learned from the competition.
“We learned how to make an excellent and balanced salsa,” said McGough.
“I’ve learned time preparation and trying to make sure you have everything on a good schedule,” said Secrest.
Club Sponsor Yvonne Coberly said it was difficult to pick a winner, but Nevaeh Secrest came out on top.
Regardless of who won, all participants left with improved skills and bonds. As mariachi music played, they grew not only as chefs but as friends, too. And that made it unconditionally worth it.
