2024 September Board Book

In addition to category champion status, each winning chef received $4,000 – $2,000 for being named a finalist and an additional $2,000 for winning their respective category. “The response to this inaugural contest was tremendous – we were inspired by the many explorations of how a versatile ingredient like California Mozzarella can be used for more than pizza and pasta dishes,” said Mike Gallagher, Business and Market Development Consultant for the CMAB. “It points to the innovation we can achieve by partnering with chefs and the next generation of culinary professionals. We appreciate how they find ways to elevate our quality California products.” The 2024 Great Mozzarella Showdown Recipe Contest finalists are as follows: Fresh Mozzarella Category CATEGORY WINNER: Burrata-Ganoush Skewers – Rebecca Peizer, All Things Culinary, Napa, Calif. Description: This dish features crispy, za'atar-spiced Real California Fresh Mozzarella skewers with a rich Stracciatella-Ganoush spread on grilled lavash. Topped with a fresh, vibrant salad, this dish offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors for a satisfying Mediterranean-inspired experience. Mozzamasala – Ryan Ososky, Dtown Pizzeria, West Hollywood, Calif. Description: A rich and creamy Indian-inspired dish, this finalist combines Real California Fresh Bocconcini Mozzarella balls with fresh peas and an aromatic tomato-onion sauce. Seasoned with warming spices like garam masala, vadouvan, and turmeric, this savory dish is simmered with Real California heavy cream for a luxurious, creamy texture and served with naan bread. Fresh Mozzarella Meatball – Jay Abrams, Full Heart Hospitality, San Francisco, Calif. Description: A juicy meatball made with ground chicken thigh, stuffed with a creamy Real California Fresh Mozzarella center, and topped with Burrata and shaved “string cheese cracklings” – each meatball is served on a pool of smoked tomato jam for a burst of flavor with every bite. The Mighty Mozzarella – Jason Triail, The Habit Burger, Orange, Calif. Description: A gourmet twist on a classic burger, this recipe features a pistachio-crusted Real California Fresh Mozzarella patty, prosciutto, and arugula on an “everything seasoning” bun. Layered with a rich tomato confit, Calabrian chilies aioli, and a touch of balsamic glaze, the burger is finished with a torch-melted slice of Real California Fresh Mozzarella and crispy fried basil for an indulgent, cheesy masterpiece. Mozzarella Category CATEGORY WINNER: Quesabirria Egg Rolls – Mike Castaneda, Devour/The Dore, Wellington, Kan. Description: This dish combines rich and flavorful birria beef with Real California Mozzarella cheese, wrapped in an egg roll wrapper. These crispy, savory bites are served with a side of consommé for dipping and garnished with fresh cilantro and lime for an added burst of flavor.