Inaugural ‘Iron Chef Competition’ at Brandon Wilde Retirement Community

Published: Mar. 28, 2025 at 7:19 PM EDT|Updated: Mar. 28, 2025 at 7:40 PM EDT
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EVANS, GA. (WRDW/WAGT) - Brandon Wilde, the area’s premier retirement community, showcased the culinary talents of its team today during its first-ever Iron Chef Competition. This spirited event featured three teams representing various departments, including Marketing, Plant Operations, and Security, engaging in a friendly cook-off.

After an intense and flavorful competition, Jordan Demonns and Marylene Williams were crowned the champions, impressing the judges with their exceptional culinary skills and creativity. Participants were evaluated on taste, presentation, sanitation, and food waste management, emphasizing a comprehensive approach to culinary excellence.

Hosted by Chef Todd Greimel, the event served as a vibrant conclusion to National Nutrition Month, highlighting the importance of nutritious and delicious meals. The competition not only celebrated healthy eating but also fostered teamwork and camaraderie among Brandon Wilde’s dedicated staff. They even asked our very own Mikel Hannah-Harding to be a celebrity judge for the first event of its kind at Brandon Wilde!

Brandon Wilde continues to provide engaging and innovative experiences for both residents and team , reinforcing its commitment to wellness, community, and excellence in senior living. They look forward to making this event an annual tradition!

Here’s a look at the competition rules:

  • Secret Ingredient: A secret ingredient will be revealed at the start of the competition — it must be incorporated into your dish. (It was Brandon Wilde Honey and crunchy Cheetos).
  • Time Limit: Teams will have 60 minutes to prepare and present their dish.
  • Judging Criteria: Dishes will be judged on:
  • Creativity – How well you use the secret ingredient.
  • Presentation – How visually appealing the dish is.
  • Flavor – Overall taste and balance of the dish.
  • Teamwork: Only team are allowed to work on the dish.
  • Cleanliness: Workstations must be cleaned before time is called.
  • Available Supplies: Basic kitchen items such as pots, pans, knives, cutting boards, mixing bowls, and utensils will be provided.
  • Basic Ingredients: A pantry of basic ingredients will be available, including but not limited to:
  • Flour, sugar, salt, pepper, oil, butter
  • Eggs, milk, cream
  • Garlic, onions, herbs, and spices
  • Vinegar, soy sauce, mustard, and other common condiments
  • Grits, rice, potatoes, and sweet potatoes
  • Chicken, shrimp, salmon, and filet of beef
  • Mushrooms, Fresh Vegetables, Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes