THE Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands and Northern Marianas Technical Institute are teaming up for the HANMI-NMTech Pastry Chef Competition this Saturday evening, May 25, at the 25th Annual Taste of the Marianas International Food Festival at American Memorial Park in Saipan.
Eleven former and ongoing students of the NMTech culinary program will be challenged to prepare the best version of a classic Marianas dessert — lantiyas — a soft, sweet delicacy that typically features sponge cake, milk, eggs, and cinnamon.
“I am immensely proud of our baking and pastry students as they prepare to showcase their talents in this upcoming competition. Their dedication, creativity, and passion for the craft have been truly inspiring to witness. I encourage them to embrace the experience wholeheartedly. I also want to give a huge thank you to Marianas Visitors Authority and HANMI for their continued partnership in making this event happen.” said NMTech CEO Jodina Attao.
In support of developing a culinary workforce that is essential to the hotel industry, HANMI is offering up $1,500 in prize money to the winners: $750 for 1st place, $500 for 2nd place, and $250 for 3rd place.
“The hotel members of HANMI are pleased to support the further development of our culinary workforce in the Marianas, and this year’s contest is just the icing on the cake, so to speak,” said HANMI Chairman Dennis Seo. “Our members regularly engage in providing internships, job shadowing, and even student tours to create more opportunities for people to choose a career in our food service industry. We’re certainly looking forward to this week’s competition!”
The contest will incorporate three secret ingredients. Chefs will begin at 6 p.m., and desserts will be chilled around 7 p.m. until judging begins at 8 p.m. Entries will be judged based on appearance, taste, texture, and kitchen sanitation.
Taste of the Marianas will be open from 5-11 p.m. on Saturday, featuring cuisine from Saipan World Resort, Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan, Pacific Islands Club Saipan, Surf Club, and other food and drink vendors, as well as live entertainment throughout the night.
