The Frontier Stage at the Kern County Fair transformed into a bustling kitchen arena Friday for the second annual Chopped Challenge, presented by Blue Zones Project Bakersfield. Here, five pairs of Kern High School District nutrition staff and students hustled under the clock, armed with plant-based ingredients, three mystery items, and just 30 minutes to impress the judges.
Among them were Ridgeview High’s Hailie Burnett and KHSD’s Chef Brandon Sullivan who rose to the challenge. With creativity and quick teamwork, they crafted a “Taste of Spain” tapas plate featuring chipotle peppers in adobo sauce and cactus. The bold flavors and inventive presentation won over the judges and secured them the title of Chopped Challenge champions.
But victory didn’t come easy — every team delivered impressive plates. Independence High’s Reyin Jenkins and KHSD director Richard Andrews claimed second place, while Mira Monte’s Katherine Gallardo and KHSD’s Jennifer Davis took third. Shafter’s Emily Saenz, Highland’s Samantha Magana, and their culinary mentors were also among the competitors.
By Melissa Rossiter
Melissa Rossiter is the senior marketing specialist for Blue Zones Project Bakersfield. She loves using her passion for storytelling to share how this inspiring project will help transform the health and wellness of our community.