MSU Culinary Services will host the Culinary Cup and Bake Off beginning at 8 a.m. May 12 at The Vista at Shaw Hall.
The Culinary Cup, established in 2001, is an annual “Chopped” style live cooking challenge, consisting of multiple rounds of competition.
Teams of two representing MSU dining neighborhoods and the Spartan Hospitality Group will be given specific ingredients to prepare a dish. In addition, there will be teams submitting baked goods for the chance to be named the 2016 Bake Off champions.
“Creating a real-life cooking challenge allows fans of the reality shows and other programs to see the entertainment first hand,” said corporate chef, Kurt Kwiatkowski. “Each flight, you’ll see specialty ingredients and have a chance to experience our staff crafting truly innovative dishes. There’s a lot of talent on this campus and I think they'll really wow you.”
This year’s judges are East Lansing mayor Mark Meadows, WMMQ 94.9 radio broadcaster and Munn Ice Arena announcer Joey Pants and MSU women¹s field hockey head coach, Helen Knull. Finished entries will be judged on presentation, taste, texture, completeness, originality, plate composition and use of the mystery basket ingredients.
The competition supports professional growth, providing staff with a chance to show originality in the kitchen. Additionally, it enhances their collaborative skills as they work alongside a teammate to plan and execute their recipe.
“The Culinary Cup builds excitement for our team members,” said Stacey Robinson, interim senior sales manager for University Conference Services. “Not only do they have fun competing, but it’s also a great way for them to showcase their culinary expertise and it is proof positive that we have many passionate and skilled individuals in our dining halls at MSU.”
The public is invited to attend the event and watch the action. Come cheer on our teams throughout the day! There will be giveaways in the morning and lunch will be provided by the Union Deli from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Vista at Shaw Hall is located on North Shaw Lane between Bogue Street and Farm Lane. Please see the MSU Police website for information on visitor parking.