After a short hiatus due to restrictions imposed by COVID-19, Des Moines took centre stage to host the Midwest’s Provincial Grand Chapitre and show mid-western hospitality’s true colours.

AC Hotel hosted the Grand Chapitre with the Provincial Final of the Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs (JCR) Competition being held at the Iowa Culinary Institute.

Bailli Délégué Bertrand de Boutray and Midwest Bailli Provincial Greg Wallis facilitated the weekend highlighting the importance and impact of JCR Competition. They observed that the Chaîne plays a crucial part in the sponsoring and planning of this event which is a wonderful opportunity for young up-and-coming culinary professionals.

The Grand Chapitre’s weekend programme explored every aspect of Des Moines including its greatest attractions.

In the JCR Competition on April 2nd four talented chefs challenged to prepare three courses from a mystery basket including centre cut pork loin from Jones Dairy Farms, the event’s main sponsor.

The weekend’s pinnacle at the Iowa Culinary Institute saw guests sipping Collet Brut NV Champagne and nibbling hors d’oeuvres. After the reception, Bailli Délégué Bertrand de Boutray presided over the Induction Ceremony for new and promoted members.

There followed a wonderful five-course Gala Dinner prepared by Iowa Culinary Institute students under the expert direction and tutelage of Chef Michael Dell. Perfect wine pairings were orchestrated by Daniel Divine, Vice-Échanson of Des Moines.

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Shrimp Idaho-style
citrus tarragon caper sauce
Granbazán Etiqueta Ambar Albariño 2020
Rías Baixas, Spain

Tomato onion soup served tableside
canelé of herbed goat cheese, fresh micro basil
Sancerre Blanc ‘Les Griottes’ 2020
Elisa Gueneau - Loire Valley

Dover sole with a pistachio herb crust
velvety saffron butter sauce
Au Bon Climat Chardonnay 2020
Santa Barbara, California

“Lamb in a cage”
rack of lamb with jus, roasted morels
Gigondas 2019
Domaine du Cayron - Rhône Valley

White chocolate raspberry panna cotta
Tokaji Late Harvest
Oremus KFT - Hungary

During the dinner in the Institute’s impressive lake view dining room, Phil Gentry, representing the Bailliage of Cincinnati, was announced as the Provincial JCR winner for 2022. He will now represent the Midwest at the National Final.

Additionally during the evening, the Bailliage’s support of culinary trade was showcased. Bailli Délégué de Boutray and Bailli Provincial Wallis presented $12,000 cheque supporting student scholarships at the Iowa Culinary Institute.

Vive la Chaîne!

Based on a detailed write-up prepared by Rolando A. Molina, Vice-Chargé de Presse, Bailliage of Des Moines