NEA students cook up a win at World Food Championships

JONESBORO, Ark. (KAIT) – Several Northeast Arkansas chefs, both young and old, tasted victory at the World Food Championships.

Not only did Misti Stowers of Pocahontas win first place in the opening round of the dessert championships, several Craighead County 4-H students also cooked their way to recognition.

Maggie Hutton, Acea Edington, and Canaan Garland placed fifth in the WFC’s Junior Division with their herb-crusted, balsamic-glazed pork loin with peach chutney and Caprese-inspired risotto, according to a Monday news release.

The junior chefs had 90 minutes to prepare, plate, and deliver their dishes for judging on a 1 to 10 scale for execution, appearance, and taste.

The trio scored 93.25 out of 100 to cinch 5th place and an automatic invitation to next year’s competition.

“It was a really exciting experience, from walking the red carpet to submit our dish to getting feedback on how to improve it from the Cheferees,” said 15-year-old Maggie Hutton of Jonesboro. “We learned how to work under pressure and how to adjust when things don’t quite go our way, and I’m looking forward to competing again next year.”

Hutton isn’t the only one who can’t wait to return in 2025.

“It was fun, and I learned even if the plan does not work out, I can change directions, and it will still be okay,” said 14-year-old Acea Edington of Harrisburg. “I can’t wait to try again next year!”

Nine-year-old Canaan Garland echoed their sentiments.

“It was fun,” he said. “I’m looking forward to competing again next year.”

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