IT AIN'T JUST FOR ROASTS AND STEWS ANY MORE
The black cast iron pot with a flanged lid to hold coals and three legs to set over coals, commonly called a camp style Dutch oven, figured prominently in the exploration, settlement, and development of the West. From early explorers, Lewis and Clark, to pioneers crossing the plains in covered wagons, to cowboys driving cattle to market, the Dutch oven provided nourishing meals and was one of the most utilized and treasured vessels they possessed. Because of its durability and versatility, it eliminated the necessity of taking assorted pots and pans when space was so limited. Cooks could bake, steam, stew and fry in the oven and cook eggs and griddle cakes on the inverted lid. Its use was so widespread on cattle drives that Charles Goodnight designed a special compartment, called a boot, on his chuck wagon to transport the Dutch oven.
The 6 th Annual Dutch Oven Cook-off “COOK'EN IN THE PARK” will be held Saturday May 16 th , 2009 in conjunction with CRAFT FAIR and THE RED BLUFF GREAT NATIONAL CANOE/KAYAK RACES. These events will be held at the Red Bluff River Park and Marina in Red Bluff, California.
This is a Three Pot contest. However, if you wish to cook One or Two Pots that is OK. The three pots cook-off should have a Main Dish, Bread and Dessert. $100.00 and a plaque will be awarded to the first places for each category. Plaques will be awarded to Second and Third places. You could win all three! We will be cooking in an open area and the weather might be a problem. It is recommended that if you have an E-Z up instant shelter, you might need it. Theme table decorations are encouraged. A special plaque (KAY WEBB AWARD) will be given for the best table decoration.
There are no cooking fees. That means. just come, cook, have fun. You may win!!!
Please return the Application by May 1, 2009. We need to arrange for tables and chairs.
We will be there about 7:00 AM. Start cooking when you need to. A Cooks meeting will be held at 8:00 AM and judging will commence at 12:00 PM. The Public may purchase tasting tickets ($5.00) to sample your dishes after they have been judged. The ticket holder then can vote for the dishes they like best. Plaques for People Choice Award will also be awarded.
We are encouraging all beginning Dutch Oven Cook's to participate and cook. You should have a good time and you can learn a lot. As our rules say, “Have Fun and Cook great Food”.
4-H Groups, Boy Scouts Patrols and Juniors are invited to participate and cook. They will be judged under a separate category. The youth teams must be accompanied by an adult. If you have any questions please contact Don Mason at 530-527-1027 or iron_kettle@hotmail.com. Hope you can join us for good fun and great food.
Don Mason
Rules
