Come enjoy cooking demos, sample chowder recipes from some of the state’s best fire house chefs, and cast your vote for your favorite chowder! Or take the challenge and compete! NYSAFC's "Cookin’ in the House: Chowder Challenge" will be held during the 107th Annual Conference and FIRE 2013 expo on Friday, June 14, 2013, from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the Turning Stone Resort in Verona, N.Y.

Guest judges Robert Painter (FDNY Engine 63 and NYSAFC Hands-On Training instructor) and John Sierp (FDNY Ladder 169) will offer demonstrations for the fire house cook. They’ve appeared on the TV shows "Chopped," and "The Rachael Ray Show."

One prize will be awarded in the following categories: "Chowder Challenge" Champion (best overall chowder), Most Creative Chowder, People’s Choice Chowder, Best Clam Chowder, and Best Station Display.

Winners will be selected by NYSAFC’s special panel of judges. The People’s Choice Chowder award will be chosen by FIRE 2013 attendees. All chefs will receive a gift for competing.

Interested in competing? Sign up by May 17! Click here to download a registration form.  

Chefs – be creative with your ingredients! Traditional interpretations of chowder or bisque soups using clams, fish, corn, and potato can be entered into competition... or put your own distinctive spin on this classic dish!