Nutritious Cooking Competition: A Culinary Showdown in the Heart of the Muthatti Village

Nourishing the body and soul is a time-honored tradition in villages, where communities come together to celebrate the bounties of nature. In the spirit of this age-old tradition and to commemorate September month as Poshan Month Pratham Mysore in collaboration with KVK –JSS Suttur, organized final Nutritious Cooking competition that combined culinary expertise with a focus on health and well-being hosted at village- Muthatti on 4th October 2023. This event was not just about cooking; it was a celebration of nutritious food, local flavors, and the camaraderie of our close-knit community.

Celebrating Local Cuisine:

One of the highlights of our Nutritious Cooking Competition was the emphasis on local ingredients. Participants were encouraged to use ingredients sourced from their own gardens, orchards, and fields. This not only showcased the richness of our region’s produce but also promoted sustainability and support for local farmers.

Healthy Cooking Challenge:

Enthusiastic Participants

The heart of the competition lay in the preparation of healthy and nutritious meals. Contestants were tasked with creating dishes that not only tantalized the taste buds but also provided essential nutrients. The competition featured dishes made from Siri Dhanya- all types of millets, potato, cereals & pulses and raw banana catering to diverse dietary preferences.

Community Engagement:

Our Model village is known for its strong sense of community, and this event served as a perfect platform for everyone to come together. From planning and organizing to volunteering and participating, the entire community, competitors from Sujjaluru, Mavinahalli, Hyakanuru and Muthatti, Pratham Mysore staff, teachers, volunteer and facilitators played a vital role in making the competition a success. It was a true celebration of our shared heritage and the love of good food.

Expert Judging Panel:

A panel of esteemed judges, including JSS KVK Head- M. Divya, Ms. Vasantha, Science teacher-Muthatti, Ms. Ratna Rajaiah – Pratham Poshana, Vertical head and Ms. Vinutha, Program Manager, Pratham Mysore evaluated the dishes based on taste, presentation; ingredients used, nutritional value, and creativity. Their expertise ensured that the winning dishes not only satisfied the palate but also contributed to a healthier lifestyle.

Winners and Prizes:

The competition brought out the best in our village’s chefs, both young and old. Prizes were awarded for the top three dishes from 13 teams, and the winners received not only recognition, prize, and certificates but an invitation to participate in the JSS-KVK Food and Millet Melas, free stalls in KVK-Sutturu fair and free pass to other prominent exhibitions and competitions.

KVK-JSS has also promised to help and train the women on entrepreneurial skills to expand their set up and also to provide relevant training in other skill sectors.

Training and awareness:

Before the cooking competition, educational trainings were conducted in the villages of Muthatti, Hyakanuru, Mavinahalli and Sujjaluru to raise awareness about the importance of nutrition and healthy eating. Participants learned about balanced diets, the benefits of incorporating local ingredients, and cooking techniques that maximize nutrient retention.

Future Initiatives:

The success of our Nutritious Cooking Competition has inspired us to continue promoting healthy eating in our villages. We plan to organize more culinary events, cooking classes, and community gardens to encourage sustainable practices and support local food producers.

Conclusion:

Our Nutritious Cooking Competition was not just about culinary skills; it was a celebration of the rich tapestry of flavors that our village has to offer. It emphasized the importance of nutrition, community engagement, and the preservation of local available resources and culinary traditions. This event has left a lasting impact on our village, inspiring us to continue nourishing both our bodies and our bonds within this close-knit community. We look forward to many more delicious and nutritious gatherings in the future.