Mussel Chowder Competition
For this competition the vital ingredients are ...
You and KONO Mussels.
Right at Marlborough doorstep in the iconic Marlborough Sounds grow KONO’s succulent, tasty mussels. High in protein, low in carbohydrates and calories, KONO mussels provide many valuable minerals and vitamins. Their omega 3 content is helpful in preventing heart disease, lowering triglycerides and thinning blood.
Four finalists prepare to compete for the claim to NZ’s finest Mussel Chowder
Contestants in the KONO New Zealand Mussel Chowder competition will feel the heat in the finals cook off with head judge Chris Fortune at the Marlborough Convention Centre. Four finalists will compete for the claim of “NZ’s best mussel chowder creator” on Saturday 7 June.
KONO New Zealand, known for its succulent Heat’n Eat flavoured halfshell mussels asked home chefs to get creative in the kitchen, stewing up unique blends of richness and flavours with NZ’s icon KONO New Zealand Greenshell mussels.
The finalists are Steve Holtum of Blenheim with Satay Mussel Chowder, Diane Davidson of Auckland with Mussel Chowder Pasifika, Katrina Smith, and Caroline Anderson both of Blenheim.
Aucklander Diane Davidson was thrilled to get the telephone call the other night. “I'm really looking forward to coming down to Blenheim & competing, also to see the other finalists entries!”, she said. She took the chance to get creative with Marlborough’s Greenshell mussels, after spending four months in the UK last year where she longed for New Zealand produce.
“I really missed New Zealand's rich produce - particularly our 'Kai Moana'. Our Greenshell mussels are unique! We are blessed with a cornucopia of good foods in this part of the world- a real cause for celebration!” she said.
Head Judge Chris Fortune has prepped the brand new Convention Centre kitchen, where he is joined by associate judges Marcus Pickens of Wine Marlborough, and Jason Mitchelmore of Hotel d'Urville. All are experienced judges. They will be waiting for the contestants with all ingredients on hand. The winner will receive a cash prize of $500 . Second place winner will receive a fabulous hamper treat of KONO wine and mussels. To enter entrants had to be amateurs and supply their favourite mussel chowder featuring KONO mussels.