| U.S. Rice Highlighted in El Salvador Cooking Competition |
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| The USDA and El Salvador’s Higher Institute of International Gastronomy Les Arts Culinaires held the culinary challenge "Sabor USA Culinary Master Challenge,” promoting the versatility of American products imported into El Salvador and encouraging creativity in fusing Salvadoran flavors with American ingredients. The culinary challenge, which took place on Thursday, July 13, consisted of testing the culinary skills of five students from the prestigious institute, using the following imported products: Russet potatoes, Washington apples, turkey, smoked bacon, pork tenderloin, black beans, white rice, sushi rice and chicken wings. Future chefs put their creativity to the test by creating recipes with those ingredients delivered in a closed or “mystery” box.The recipes were evaluated by a jury of six chefs, who tasted and judged the presentation of the final dish. In addition, they considered the cleanliness of the work, the processes, the preparation of utensils and dishes, applied techniques, among other important aspects. Likewise, the six jurors rated the creativity and responsiveness of the competitors in creating attractive recipes with exceptional flavor. “We want to challenge our students and test their knowledge learned in Les Arts Culinaires, and what better opportunity than Sabor USA Culinary Master Challenge. This competition has helped the participants to educate themselves in the use and handling of American products, to learn about their versatility and quality, but above all to expand their minds on how to use them in a non-traditional and unconventional way,” commented the Culinary General Director of Les Arts Culinaires, chef Arnaud Guerpillon. The competition was also attended by the United States Ambassador to El Salvador, William Duncan, who tasted the dishes made by the students. The event culminated with awards to the first three places that won scholarships for additional cooking courses. |
 1st Place Winner: Andrés Ernesto Galdámez Montoya Honey Wings and Chips |  2nd Place Winner: Ana Marcela Vilanova Castillo Caramelized Rabbit with Rice and Smoked Bacon |
 3rd Place Winner: Kenneth Diego Paula Giron Sweet Apple Sushi |
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