It’s been six months since Loren Root wowed the CUF Judges, specifically Chef Tyson Cole of Uchi, with his spectacular rendition of Chef Cole’s signature dish, Uchiviche. Chef Cole selected Loren’s Fuyuviche (recipe below and also featured in the Wine & Food Foundation’s Plate & Vine Interactive Cookbook) as the best dish in that category. Despite his demanding schedule with the opening his new restaurant in Austin this summer, Uchiko, Chef Cole has confirmed that he will be returning as a Chefs Under Fire 2010 Celebrity Chef Judge! With Chefs Under Fire™ 2010 now officially accepting entries, we were curious to catch up with the past winners to see what advice they can offer to the 2010 contestants, and if they plan to compete again! More interviews with the other 2009 winners, Keith Hildebrandt and Martin Weaver, to come soon! For more information, visit the Chefs Under Fire website at www.ChefsUnderFire2010.com.
Loren Root - Fuyuviche, Chefs Under Fire 2009 Winner, Chef Tyson Cole
Q: How would you describe your style of cooking?
A: Honestly, it depends on how much I’ve had to drink. But in general, I tend to lean towards “California Cuisine” – fresh, local, organic.
Q: Who are your culinary influences?
A: People who know how to use the whole animal and who respect the Earth. Oh yeah…and great sushi chefs.
Q: What’s your advice for Chefs Under Fire 2010 Contestants?
A: Know your audience.
Q: What did you learn as a result of competing in Chefs Under Fire 2009?
A: Winning gets you some pretty cool stuff!
Q: Will you compete in Chefs Under Fire 2010?
A: If my schedule permits, I would be honored.
Sounds like Loren Root is ready to compete again! Do you think you have want it takes to beat one of the returning champions?
Try this Chefs Under Fire 2009 Winning Recipe at Home
