Kingston, Jamaica: The Jamaica Cultural Development Commission (JCDC) is challenging food enthusiasts and budding chefs to unleash their creativity by coming up with new and exciting recipes using this year’s featured food crop, carrot, for this year’s Jamaica Culinary Arts Competition. Prospective entrants can submit their entries online at www.jcdc.gov.jm  before the extended deadline of Tuesday, March 25, 2025, giving them more time to perfect their recipes. Aspiring chefs can also contact their nearest JCDC parish office for further assistance.

Known for its natural sweetness, vivid colour, and rich nutritional profile, the carrot provides an excellent base for culinary exploration. Participants in the competition will be encouraged to incorporate carrots into various dishes, ranging from traditional Jamaican staples to innovative fusion cuisine. Whether roasted, pickled, blended into soups, or transformed into decadent desserts, this competition aims to demonstrate the remarkable versatility of the carrot.

According to Mrs. Jane Jerry, Culinary Arts Development Specialist at the JCDC, the decision to spotlight carrots was a strategic one. “Carrots are one of those ingredients that can be used in countless ways, yet they are often overlooked. We want to challenge our participants to push the boundaries and create extraordinary dishes that not only highlight the carrot’s flavour but also its nutritional value,” she explained. “We are expecting to see a dynamic range of dishes, from spicy carrot-infused sauces to refreshing salads and even gourmet carrot-based desserts.”

The choice of the carrot as the featured ingredient is intended to encourage entrants to also think outside the box. “People often limit carrots to just carrot juice or carrot cake,” Jerry noted. “But there’s so much more that can be done with this vegetable. The aim is to challenge the creativity of participants. This competition is all about expanding perspectives and showing that everyday ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary.”

The competition is expected to attract culinary talents from across the island with 4 regional showcases, providing a platform for up-and-coming culinary artists to showcase their skills. Contestants will be judged on creativity, taste, presentation, and their ability to innovate while staying true to Jamaican flavors.

The competition features 12 categories including Batters & Doughs, Wedding & Celebration Cakes, Traditional Jamaican Dishes, Preserves & Condiments, Wines & Liqueurs, Knife Skill Techniques, Recipe Writing, the Team Challenge, the Mystery Basket, and Pan Chicken. A major focus is on food safety, with strict guidelines to prevent spoilage and ensure hygiene.

The JCDC uses the platform afforded by the Culinary Arts Competition to foster culinary excellence, particularly in our children. In the process, food lovers and industry professionals alike will have the opportunity to witness the transformation of the carrot from a simple ingredient into a gourmet masterpiece.

Persons seeking additional information on the competition may visit the JCDC’s website www.jcdc.gov.jm  and social media pages.