Congratulations to the winners of the The Fuel Your Fire Plating Contest presented by Libbey! We challenged 50 US-based chefs to show us what drives and inspires them and showcase their presentation skills by plating original dishes on complimentary plates from @LibbeyPro! We received many outstanding entries that demonstrated incredible culinary passion and artistry, but these chefs blew our judges away. They’ve each just won paid travel and admission to ACF this summer and will be a featured cooking chef at the Libbey Booth! Congrats chefs!
GRAND PRIZE WINNERS
Will each receive an all expenses paid trip to Las Vegas for two nights during the ACF National Conference where they’ll get to present their winning dish at Libbey’s booth!
Cherry Blossom
A delicate tribute to the beauty of cherry blossom season, this enchanting dessert layers a citrus-kissed yuzu diplomat mousse with the rich tartness of Morello cherry jam, all embraced by a cherry blossom-infused sponge cake. The experience deepens with a crumble of cherry blossom soil and the rich contrast of dark chocolate “tree bark,” culminating in an ethereal flourish of cherry cotton candy. A celebration of fleeting beauty, captured in every bite.
Ash and Earth
Beets have always held a special place in my heart. Their versatility, nuance, and natural sweetness are often underestimated, yet they offer so much depth when treated with care. For this dish, I chose to braise and peel the beets before smoking them gently over cherry wood for two hours. I approach vegetables the same way I would a protein’allowing time, technique, and intention to draw out their fullest potential.
To complement the beets, I incorporated candied pistachios for texture, Meyer lemon whipped goat cheese for brightness and tang, fresh dill for herbaceous balance, and a touch of hot honey for warmth and spice. Each element was thoughtfully chosen to create contrast and harmony on the plate.
Thank you so much to everyone who participated in this contest! Follow Libbey on Instagram for more!
