Official Cook-Off Rules
Here are the rules that will govern each team in the inaugural Gumbo Cookoff. Judges will have an additional set of criteria to judge by.
Official Rules
1. Gumbo Teams will be comprised of no more than 4 members.
2. You will be provided with a 10x12 space. We will also provide all serving utensils (cups and spoons). Each team will be responsible for supplying a tent and at least one table. No cooking equipment, propane, tables, decorations, Power, etc will be provided by the hosts.
3. All gumbos must be fully cooked on site. No precooked gumbos. Each team will be required to make roughly 3-4 gallons of gumbo to serve the general public. Only 1 gumbo entry per team.
4. All ingredients must be cooked on-site. (Exception: Rice. That may be prepared prior to the event and will not affect judging) Roux must be cooked on site, as well as any proteins that you plan to serve. You may prep ingredients prior. Prechopped veggies, marinated meats, stocks, etc. NO PREMADE ROUX! Show us what you got!
5. Teams may arrive by 8am to start setting up and cooking. Teams must be ready to serve the public by 12pm, with judging beginning at 1pm.
*Samples from the large pot ONLY will be accepted. You may have a small crockpot or dutch oven for service, but the judges sample will be taken from your primary cook pot.
6. Judges panel will be comprised of 5 individuals, of varying backgrounds, and will be judging on the following:
Appearance
Aroma
Consistency/Texture
Taste/Aftertaste
Originality/Presentation
7. Teams will be awarded an additional 1.5 points for incorporating a New Magnolia Brewing beer into their recipe. This could mean the difference between 1st and 2nd place, or it could doom you. Choose wisely!
8. Provide a "Highlights List" of your gumbo with key ingredients, unique techniques, and garnishes. Index card will be provided.
9. Peoples Choice Judging will conclude at 4pm. Jars with team number will be present and guests will have 1 token to vote for their favorite team's gumbo.
10. Teams must provide a hand washing station. This consists of clean water, soap, and a catch tub/bucket.
11. Gloves must be worn at all times by anyone serving, or cooking food.
12. Teams are encouraged to decorate their tents. While this may not factor into the blind judging, it does go a long way in People's Choice. Have fun with it.
13. Have Fun! This is our first year, and we hope to make it an annual event!