Interview with stfuboosie !!/MEZC9Vdvfg, the winner of Season One

1. As the winner of the first ever /ck/ Challenge, you must have a unique perspective on the competition. As we're nearing the end, what has been your thoughts on this year's Challenge?

The themes have been great this year. They were more specific and more challenging. I would have LOVED to participate, I think I would have had a major run for my money. I love the added challenge of requiring a vertical. The ramen challenge could have been so much better. I think people were limiting themselves a little bit there, I wanted to see more risks in earlier rounds. They are coming out of their shells a little now though. 

2. What do you think has been the biggest difference in this year and last year's competition?

More interest, more exposure. The contestants seem to banter with each other,more camaraderie (love that), the voting is being taken really seriously. There were A LOT more people who wanted to compete in this contest. 

3. Last year's Challenge ended up being a marathon event that spanned over four months. I think everyone who observed it was amazed by the kind of dedication and effort it took to participate in so many rounds. Do you think this year is easier than the last because of the reduced number of rounds? 

YES!  But only easier in the sense that it is more manageable, I still think the themes are more challenging and  I think the judging is harsher.

4. What has your favorite theme so far?

The Tapas (second only to the time warp theme those two were neck and neck!). 

5. Your favorite entry?

Oh god, well frgsp made some potatoes souffles that I would love to try, but that was just part of the entry. Sir Spice's entry in the time warp challenge looked amazing. It was like something out of a magazine from the 50s. I love all of Borneo's stuff, she is hilarious- that toga, omg!

6. As the current reigning champion, any advice for the final four? 

Take your time, think about what YOU would find the most delicious. Have fun with it too, stuffy food looks stuffy and unapproachable. 

When I made my final entry: ok, so I really thought about this dish. I decided that I wouldn't try to appeal to the judges and "kiss their asses" with stuff they were guaranteed to like, it would have come off as trying too hard and not genuine. Try a few different things first before you go with the one dish. USE YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY AS TEST SUBJECTS. Let them help you decide on what to make, take influence from your own life. 

 I wanted my dish to be eye catching, I thought about colors first. I wanted to make a beautiful dish with lots of colors. I didn't want to use a heavy dish, I thought something a little lighter would appeal more to me and my family. I wanted something representative of where I came from, since I am familiar with Cajun and creole cooking the most. I added that element to my dish. I thought about my favorite food memories and let them influence me. Lastly I thought about how could make a classic flavor combo new and exciting, I put it in a spring roll, added a lively escabeche, and updated the boring remoulade. I also have an unhealthy obsession with party foods, appetizers, and hors d'oeuvres and I thought the Crabmeat Ravigote Spring Rolls fit the bill nicely.

You can see more of boosie's recipes at her food blog: toooldforramen.tumblr.com