Food - Creative Cooking with Fresh Herbs

Fresh Flavors Win Honors in State Fair Herb Cooking Contest

Pamela Lang of Johnston won First Place Overall in the Creative Cooking with Fresh Herbs competition judged Saturday, August 12, at the 2023 Iowa State Fair.

Contestants were challenged to create award-worthy appetizers, breads and desserts featuring at least one herb.

Entries were judged on flavor, creativity and appearance.

Additional results follow:

Appetizer

1) Pamela Lang, Johnston

2) Jamie Buelt, Polk City

3) Ann Gillotti, Ankeny

Bread

1) Barb Miller, Prairie City

2) Chris Solis, Marion

3) Alicia Rigdon, Mediapolis

Dessert

1) Jenna Brady, Runnells

2) Barb Miller, Prairie City

3) Molly Jones, New Sharon

The Iowa State Fair Food Department is the largest of any state fair in the country. There are 138 divisions, 695 classes and over 6,800 entries at this year’s Fair. Food Department judging is held in the Elwell Family Food Center.