Timberlane Middle School chefs win first place in New Hampshire cooking competition

In a lively atmosphere filled with laughter and the tantalizing aroma of freshly cooked food, the Timberlane Regional School District's board meeting on April 17, 2025, took a delightful turn as the first-place winners of the New Hampshire Middle School Cooking Competition showcased their culinary talents. The excitement was palpable as the young chefs, representing Timberlane Middle School, presented their award-winning dish—a chicken and waffle sandwich—crafted with care and creativity.

The competition, likened to an "Iron Chef" challenge, saw students from Timberlane compete against peers from Pelham Memorial School and Merrimack Valley Middle School. Under the watchful eye of celebrity judge Bobby the Butcher, a two-time champion from the Guy's Grocery Games, the students had just one hour to prepare their barbecue-themed creations. The judges evaluated the dishes based on taste, presentation, and innovative use of honey, which was a key ingredient in the competition.

As the students introduced themselves, their pride was evident. Amber, Carson, Eva, and Ryan shared their experiences, highlighting the teamwork and fun they had while preparing for the event. Their dish, a classic chicken and waffle sandwich, featured golden chicken nestled between savory waffles infused with bacon, Parmesan cheese, and scallions, accompanied by a signature homemade barbecue sauce crafted by Eva.

The board members were not only impressed by the dish but also by the composure and collaboration displayed by the young chefs. One board member noted how the students managed the pressure of cooking for a crowd, contrasting their calm demeanor with the chaos often experienced in home kitchens during family gatherings.

The cooking competition was not just about winning; it was a celebration of creativity and teamwork, fostered by their dedicated teacher, Miss Schuljan. Her commitment to nurturing the students' culinary skills was acknowledged, as she selflessly cleaned up after the event, embodying the spirit of mentorship.

As the meeting concluded, the students were encouraged to continue their culinary journey, with suggestions to bring their passion for cooking into high school and beyond. The trophy they earned was not just a symbol of victory but a reminder of the skills and friendships they developed along the way.

This heartwarming event at the Timberlane Regional School District highlighted the importance of extracurricular activities in fostering creativity and collaboration among students, leaving attendees with a sense of pride in their community's young talents.