Local Students Heat Up The Kitchen During "Chopped" Inspired Challenge

On Friday, December 11th, students of Suffolk County Community College kicked it up a notch in the kitchen during a special culinary "Chopped" like competition, Battle for the Beach, held at the college's Culinary Arts and Hospitality Center in Riverhead. Just like the Food Network reality show, competitors were given a basket with several mystery components, which included a whole chicken, broccoli, endives, red pepper, potato and shallot that the contestants had to use to create an irresistible meal, in just 90 minutes.

After tasting all of the flavorful and creative dishes, the judges decided that it was Bay Shore's Shannon Bloomquist who won top honors of Battle for the Beach. Bloomquist's winning meal featured a delectable pan seared chicken with natural au jus, braised endive and herb scented mash potatoes. "I congratulate all of the students, faculty and staff who organized and took part in the Battle for the Beach competition, and wish our Top Chef, Shannon Bloomquist, well," said Suffolk County Community College President Dr. Shaun L. McKay.

Along with the title of Suffolk's "Top Chef," the talented chef will also receive a relaxing getaway. During her seven-night stay at the Sheraton Clearwater Beach Resort in Clearwater, Florida, Bloomquist will have the opportunity to impress the resort's executive chef when she shows off her skills in the resort's kitchen.

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Nicole is the Editor-in-Chief of Hamptons.com where she focuses on lifestyle, nightlife, and mixology. She grew up in the Hamptons and currently resides in Water Mill. www.hamptons.com NicoleBarylski NicoleBarylski