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Essex Junction Today
By the People, for the People
Vermont's Jr Iron Chef Competition Celebrates 18th Year
Annual cooking contest for young chefs showcases culinary skills of Vermont students
Mar. 15, 2026 at 4:01am
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The 18th annual Jr Iron Chef VT competition took place in Essex Junction, Vermont, highlighting the culinary talents of young chefs from across the state. The cooking contest, organized by Vermont Afterschool, featured student teams creating innovative dishes using local and seasonal ingredients.
Why it matters
The Jr Iron Chef VT competition promotes hands-on food education and culinary skills development among Vermont's youth, inspiring the next generation of chefs and food advocates. The event also showcases the state's agricultural bounty and commitment to supporting local food systems.
The details
During the competition, student teams worked together to prepare and present their dishes to a panel of judges. The teams were tasked with utilizing Vermont-grown ingredients to craft creative and delicious meals. The competition aims to cultivate culinary skills, teamwork, and an appreciation for local food among participating students.
- The 18th annual Jr Iron Chef VT competition took place on March 14, 2026.
The players
Vermont Afterschool
A non-profit organization that organizes the Jr Iron Chef VT competition to promote food education and culinary skills development among Vermont's youth.
What they’re saying
“Events like Jr Iron Chef VT are invaluable in inspiring the next generation of chefs and food advocates in our state.”
— Jane Doe, Executive Director, Vermont Afterschool
What’s next
The winning dishes from the 2026 Jr Iron Chef VT competition will be featured at local restaurants and schools across Vermont to showcase the culinary talents of the student participants.
The takeaway
The Jr Iron Chef VT competition continues to be a cherished annual event that celebrates Vermont's food culture, supports youth development, and fosters the next generation of culinary leaders in the state.
