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Lynchburg sous chef preparing to compete in major cooking competition

LYNCHBURG, Va. – Sous Chef John Barker from the University of Lynchburg is gearing up for the culinary competition of a lifetime.

He’s competing in the National Association of Colleges & University Food Services Culinary Challenge. He is one of six contestants in the regional cooking competition, where each chef must create an original dish featuring whole chicken and chicken livers.

Part of Barker’s dish includes pan-seared chicken breast, fondant sweet potatoes, and a cherry balsamic glaze.

“I’m trying to put myself in those scenarios now. Trying to give myself harsh time limits now to make sure that, you know, when when when the pressure is on that there’s no doubt that, you know, not only do I know what I’m doing, but I’ve been there. I’ve practiced.”

John Barker, Sous Chef at the University of Lynchburg

Barker is grateful for his co-workers' support and is committed to winning a title for himself and the University of Lynchburg.


About the Author
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Amanda Stellwag is a Content Gatherer and joined the WSLS 10 News team in December 2024. She is from New Jersey and graduated from Rutgers University in May 2024.