Battle Corn - June 15, 2008

We had another fabulous showing on Father's Day for Concert in the Park, Iron Chef Battle CORN.

Bob arrived sporting his new Mr. Coronado shirt, a gift from adopted daughter, Pammy. Chef Pam's Tamales really rocked, as evidenced by Karaoke Archie's howling praise.

Kai flew solo (Hill, Max & Olivia were visiting family in Florida), but he proudly wore his Olivia's Daddy hat. Chef Kai prepared homemade, baked Tortilla Chips to complement his yummy Smoked Corn Salsa.

Master Diver Mike and Vicki joined us for their first Concert of the season and Chef Vicki enthusiastically jumped into the Battle with a beautifully plated and tasty Corn, Tomato and Shrimp Salad.

Although she couldn't join us, Chef Carolyn was inspired by the competition and contributed her tasty version of Emeril's Hot and Cheesy Corn Dip with Blue Corn Tortilla Chips. Thanks Mom!

Chef Brad grilled fresh Corn on the Cob with Garlic-Chive Butter and impressed us all with his cleverly tied husks.

Chef Zesty whipped up Corn-Studded Guacamole and chips. Can we now assume the kitchen is completely unpacked after 6 months?

Chef Mary and sous-chef Riley slaved in the "I only have a kitchen because it came with the house" kitchen, for at least 2 full minutes opening that can of corn, but what's a girl to do on the fly after relaxing poolside at the Del for the afternoon? Love ya Sparks ;-)...

Kerry also had a tough day poolside at the Del and was unable to take the heat of Kitchen Stadium. However, she came through with another bag of goodies for the winner, her prized Ropin' the Flavors of Texas Cookbook, a few cans of Hatch Jalapeno Chiles (I think these were supposed to go in the New Mexican Corn Pudding that didn't make it to the Park!), and some Pampered Chef kitchen toys - Corn Cob Nobs and a cute Flour/Sugar Shaker.

Chef John presented the group with another collection of gourmet Balls. This time, he created rich and decadent Praline-Crunch-Nut Popcorn Balls. When asked for a showing of hands of those who wished to indulge, a lady sitting with the group next to ours frantically waved her hand in the air. She wasn't shy in going after what she wanted and was ultimately rewarded with a taste of one of his balls.

M version of Tuscan Meat Ragu over Creamy Polenta (simmered for an extra 5 hours) was voted the winning dish, but all the dishes were truly fantastic.

We seem to kick it up a notch every week and John and I hope to put together a cookbook of photos and recipes at the end of the summer season. If you would like any of your recipes and/or photos included, please remember to e-mail them to me. Thanks again to the Chefs, friends and family for joining us.