Time to rate the plate
REMINDER TO VOTERS: Please make sure to vote for your favorite MAIN DISH between the TWO matchups--Darius vs. Joelen and Amy vs. Joey.
Knives down, hands up! Our chef-testants were fired up today--and even the ones competing next week got in on the trash talking action. Thanks to everyone's hard work today.
By Thursday, our celebrity chef and judge Rick Bayless will name his favorites and decide who will move on.
But vote on your favorite main dish between Joelen and Darius and Amy and Joey by leaving a comment! Every vote counts. If you are eliminated by Chef Bayless, you can be "saved" by the public and return to the final round of competition as a wildcard. The Virtual Kitchen Stadium Finals will have the two chefs who won their challenges, and one eliminated chef with the most votes. Voting will close for all the chefs before the final round and at that time we will name the wildcard.
If you're not on ChicagoNow yet, when you get to the comment boxes please sign up for a profile. It takes a second and it's free (and don't worry, we won't sell your info to a Nigerian doctor who needs thousands of dollars).
Today's secret ingredient was cherries. Let's see what they came up with ...
MATCHUP 1: JOELEN VS. DARIUS
Joelen (@itsjoelen), Savory Triple Cherries Jubilee
Joelen's cherries jubilee
Cherry Balsamic Braised Stuffed Chicken
For this dish, I wanted to highlight cherries by using it as a braising sauce for chicken. Cherries can have both a sweet and tart flavor, which works nicely with balsamic vinegar. Combining the two to create a sauce intensifies the flavor. For the chicken, I wanted to keep it lightly seasoned but still pair with the glaze. Including a creamy component with herbed goat cheese added some contrasting textures too. Finally, to tie the entire dish together, I prepared a caramelized turnip puree. Potatoes would have been too heavy for a summer dish and using turnips is a nice alternative.
Cherry Balsamic Braising Sauce
1 cup balsamic vinegar
2 cups pitted fresh cherries
1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard
2 tablespoons honey
1 stalk of fresh rosemary
4-5 stalks of fresh thyme
Combine the balsamic vinegar, fresh cherries, mustard, honey, rosemary and thyme in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until the cherries soften up. Remove from heat and set side to cool.
Chicken
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 oz goat cheese
1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
1 teaspoon heavy cream
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
In a medium bowl, combine the goat cheese, fresh herbs and heavy cream to create an herbed goat cheese mixture; set aside as this will be stuffed inside the chicken breast.
Prepare your chicken by creating a pocket for the stuffing. Using a sharp paring knife, make a slit into the side of the chicken breast, cutting along one edge of the chicken. The slit should be about 2-3 inches, depending on how large your chicken breasts are. To fill your chicken breasts, place 1/4 of the herbed goat cheese mixture inside the slit of each breast. Season the chicken breast with salt & pepper to taste and set aside.
Prepare your skillet by heating up the oil and butter on high heat. Carefully place the chicken in the skillet and gently brown on all sides. Place the browned chicken in a baking dish and carefully pour the cherry balsamic braising sauce around the chicken. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes.
Cherry and orange champagne vinaigrette
Salads are a favorite this time of year and my Savory Triple Cherries Jubilee captures the sweetness of summer cherries in a vinaigrette. Bright orange notes work nicely with cherries as I infuse sweet dark cherry juice with a muscat orange champagne vinegar, making a light and fruity dressing. Drizzle this over a bed of fresh mixed greens with sweet mandarin orange segments and fresh pitted cherries, and you'll have a colorful salad full of summer flavor!
Cherry, cheddar and rosemary scones
Who says scones can't be sweet? The last component of my Savory Triple Cherries Jubilee introduces fresh herbs, mild cheddar cheese and plump dried cherries packaged up in a savory scone. I was inspired to create this when I had my cranberry orange scone this morning. In place of dried cranberries I used dried cherries and added fresh herbs and cheese to make a savory scone that's perfect as a snack or a great addition to a meal.
Darius (@everydaycookin): Mexican Cherry Trio
Darius' Mexican Cherry Trio
It starts out with a Mexican flavored seared chicken breast that's glazed with a sweet and savory cherry balsamic glaze. That sits over a bed of cilantro and saffron rice that's been studded with dried cherries. The whole dish gets topped with a pan roasted corn and cherry salsa and finished off with the ultimate cherry margarita.
For the chicken
- 1 Tablespoon of each (salt, pepper, cumin, coriander, dried thyme, and fennel seeds)
- 3 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
For the glaze
- ½ cup of cherry preserves
- ½ cup of cherry juice
- 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup of minced shallots
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
For the Rice
- 1 cup of long grain rice
- 2 cups of low sodium chicken stock
- ¼ teaspoon of saffron
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of dried cherries
- 2 tablespoons of minced cilantro
For the Salsa
- 1 cup of frozen or fresh corn kernels
- ¼ cup of minced onion
- 1 garlic clove minced
- 2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro
- salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup of fresh chopped cherries
- 1 teaspoon of minced jalapeno
- 1 teaspoon of butter
- 1 teaspoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of red wine vinegar
The Process
Combine all ingredients for the glaze in a saucepan and bring to a boil - allow to reduce by half until done.
Get a cast iron skillet to a screaming hot temperature. Add the vegetable oil. Season the chicken liberally. Sear on one side until golden brown. Turn over and sear on the other side. Place in a hot oven (450 degrees) until an instant read thermometer reaches 165 degrees. Be sure to glaze the chicken with the cherry balsamic glaze every 2-3 minutes until the chicken is done.
For the rice - combine all ingredients - bring to a boil, and simmer until rice is tender.
For the salsa, combine and butter in a skillet until golden brown. Then combine the remainder of the ingredients and the corn into a separate bowl. Chill until ready to use.
To assemble, place rice on down first. Add chicken and a bit of the excess glaze. Top with salsa and enjoy.
The Ultimate Cherry Margarita
1 cup of ice
¼ cup of water
¼ cup of lime juice
¼ cup of tequila, triple sec, and vodka
1 cup of frozen cherries
Combine in a blender until smooth.
MATCHUP 2: AMY VS. JOEY
Amy (@grubhub) GrubHub's Spicy Cherry Meatball Sub with Cherry Pineapple Salsa
The inspiration for the GrubHub Cherry Meatball Sub came from my love of Italian meatball sandwiches. Instead of using a tomato marinara sauce, I decided to create a cherry pineapple salsa to top the meatballs. I also love sweet meat, so I thought by combining the chopped sweet cherries in with the ground beef, the sweetness would complement the spices from my five spice seasoning. The secret to any great sandwich is the bread. I decided to go with a Challah Roll, just because it rocks. Who doesn't like Challah?
Spicy Cherry Meat Ball
1 lb Ground Beef
½ lb Organic California Sweet Cherries (pitted and chopped)
½ cup Red Onion (finely chopped)
1 tbs Amy's secret five spice seasoning (mix of white and black pepper, garlic powder, sugar, and a secret ingredient).
½ cup Green Bell Pepper (chopped)
1/3 cup Italian Bread Crumbs
1 egg (only use egg yolk)
2 tbs Garlic (minced)
Pinch of salt for seasoning
Cherry Pineapple Salsa
1/3 cup Cilantro (finely chopped)
½ Jalapeno Pepper (finely chopped)
½ cup Red Onion (finely chopped)
½ Freshly Squeezed Lime
1 cup Organic California Sweet Cherries (pitted and chopped)
½ cup Pineapple (finely chopped)
1 cup Diced Tomatoes
Preparation:
In a bowl combine ground beef, sweet cherries (pitted and chopped), chopped red onion, green bell peppers, five spice seasoning, garlic, Italian bread crumbs, and egg yolk. Mix well. Shape into 1 to 1 ½ inch meat balls. Arrange into one layer baking pan. Bake in oven at 350 degrees for 20 minutes.
For the salsa, combine the cilantro, jalapeño pepper, minced red onion, lime juice, sweet cherries (pitted and chopped), pineapple, and diced tomatoes. Then sauté the ingredients in a cooking pan over low heat. Don't ask me why, it's my mom's technique and it totally brings out the sweetness from the fruit. Strain some of the juices out so it doesn't get too soggy when you garnish the meatball with the salsa. I love cheese, so I top the meatballs with a little shredded Wisconsin Cheddar cheese, but no cheese is needed.
Joey (@elephantville): Red, White, & Blue Bonanza!
Spicy Cherry & Brie stuffed Burgers, Blue Chips and Cherry Salsa, and a fresh garden salad with a sweet cherry vinaigrette.
Burger
Spicy Cherries:
1/2 cup diced cherries
1/4 cup brandy
2 tsp Hot sauce
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1/4 cup diced red onion
Heated and reduced for 20mins
Meat:
2lbs Ground Chuck
1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp pepper
1 tbsp cumin
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp coffee
2 tbsp instant oats
1 tbsp walnuts
2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley
*sliced brie
Mix thoroughly and let sit at room temperature for 30min. Form into balls and hollow out the center of each burger. Fill with "spicy cherries" and some *sliced brie. Mold the patty around the filling and grill indirectly 6-10 minutes on each side only flipping once.
Cherry Mayo / Cherry Vinaigrette
1/4 cup diced cherries
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 tbsp white vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
3/4 cup mayo
Mix in a cup blender everything but the mayo. Use 3/4 of the mixture on your fresh garden salad. Use the other 1/4 mixed with the mayo as a sauce on the burgers.
Grill up some bacon & sauce and place on bun, top with cooked burger, enjoy!
Cherry Salsa
2 cups diced Cherries
1/2 cup diced red onion
2 tbsp chopped cilantro
1 tbsp diced jalapeno
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 tsp chili powder
Mix all together in a large mixing bowl, refrigerate for 1 1/2 -2 hours. Serve with Blue Corn chips.
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313 Comments
Shawna said:
JOELEN ALL THE WAY! :)
melissa said:
The Cherries Jubilee sounds delicious...especially the goat cheese, chicken & cherry combination - sounds amazing! Joelen's got my vote!
ses said:
Yum, Joelen's looks great!
Misel said:
Go Joelen!!!
mamakrystal said:
Joelen, her trio of dishes looks great and I would order that in a heartbeat! YUM!
caterlady7 said:
My vote goes to Darius for Match #1
Neither item in #2 appeals...
Judi said:
I vote for Amy! Great use of complimentary flavors!
windycitygigi said:
I want to have dinner at Joelen's. I am so making that chicken dish this weekend.
carmelotan said:
My palate says thank you Joelen!
Christine W said:
Oh wow... Joelen's dish sounds absolutely divine.
Molly Jean said:
Joelen's trio looks delicious. The only problem? Where do you start first?! Mmm...
Anthony said:
A burger with cherries?
Joelen's dish is something I would pay for at a resturant.
Erika G. said:
Joelen's dish looks the most thought-out, creative and cohesive use of the ingredient. If I saw this on a menu, I would have to order it!
Karen said:
Joelen's trio looks amazing and I'm betting it tastes even better!
twodoves said:
Joey's cherry salsa and chips please! (and please, a cherry scone, cherry salad and cherry chicken are kinda boring, sorry)
lsd6p said:
yum go joelen!
lauri said:
Joey all the way! Gotta love the red, white, and blue theme and cherries in three unique ways!
HerHoneyHive said:
I'm voting for Darius! His looks the best!
realestategirl said:
Darius Tasty Mexican Cherry Trio!!! Delicious!
kimkel said:
I have to go for the one I'd want to order if I was looking at a menu, so it goes to Joelen in the first matchup and I'd try Joey's in the second.
robert said:
The brightness and balance of flavors, seem perfect for summer, besides the beauty of the creation itself. Great job Joelen!
ankea97 said:
I vote for Joelen!! I want to eat in her kitchen today and every day! Beautiful presentation and interesting use of the secret ingredient!
Terri said:
Darius...all the way...
I can taste it! I am going to to try this over the holiday weekend!!!
Plus...it's looks pretty!
Terri
Amy said:
Joelen's dishes look fabulous! My vote goes to her!
Scot R. said:
My vote goes to Joelen!
DiAcorea said:
If Darius' Mexican Cherry Trio were featured on a menu in a local restaurant, it would be my first choice...so he gets my vote!
Tshay said:
JOEY ALL THE WAY!!!!!! What an inventive burger? Everyone vote for Joey!!!!!
Kisha said:
Mexican cherry trio got my vote. What better wa to top off a great meal......a great drink ;)
ElsaC said:
Joelen's dish sounds Amazing! She gets my vote!!
bratts29 said:
I definitely will go with the Cherry Balsamic Braised Stuffed Chicken, salad, and cherry scones. Light, summery, and a nice combo. Add a fabulous glass of wine with some good friends and you have a great summer evening.......
sharisent said:
Darius gets my vote. My mouth is watering. Go Darius!
Shannon said:
Joelen's dish gets my vote. It looks and sounds fantastic!
Jess09 said:
Joelen's dish sounds fantastic!
VellRoc said:
I luv Darius's dish! I think the cherry margarita was a great touch! :-)
Pat said:
Joelen, When can we come over for dinner?
Ieisha said:
My vote goes to Darius. He infused cherries into each dish and even came up with a drink for it! Who doesn't love a good margarita?
That could easily be the signature dish at a trendy restaurant.
Go Darius!!
Fred said:
I vote for Darius's dish. Looks great!
tmg03 said:
Joelen's trio looks fabulous! I love the goat cheese and her description is making my mouth water!
GourmetLawyer said:
JOELEN looks terrific.
Griff said:
JOELEN gets my vote!!! YUM
nnocnt2 said:
Darius I am feeling that dish...I know it is excellent like everything else you make...DELISH!!!
JanetPlanet said:
Joelen ALL THE WAY!!!
SharonsMom9880 said:
Darius! You have a GOD given talent!!! Absolutely beautiful presentation, but more importantly, I know it taste divine!!!
JenM said:
Match #1: Joelen's dish. Goat cheese and the turnip puree.
Match #2: Joey- you won me on the brie.
jenwithy said:
Joelen all the way!!!!
Stephanie said:
I'm most definately voting for Darius i love Mexican food and Margaritas if i was in a restaurant and saw that dish i would definately order GO DARIUS!
Lisa G. said:
joelen, hands down!
dcgartn said:
Match 1: Joelen
Match 2: Joey
Delady said:
Darius gets my vote...I love the Margarita touch! Gotta try this;-)
prettyshop17 said:
Darius "THAT'S WHAT YOU CALL A SUMMER MEAL!!!"
jchg said:
My vote is for Joelen. I would order her dishes in a heartbeat!
Becky said:
These all look delicious! My vote is for Joelen because I love the idea of goat cheese and cherries together. Yum!
Wil said:
I know this has to taste good with the infusion of these select flavors. Where is his restaurant and can I make a reservation? !!!!!
Dorothy Hernandez said:
Thanks for your comment ... but who are you voting for?
katmachine said:
I think everyone did a fabulous job BUT Joelen's dishes are my favorite and get my vote. Go Joelen, make Chicago proud!
regena said:
my vote goes to Darious...i love the cherry margarita, it looks refreshing. i also would love to try the chicken! go Daroius!
Kirsty said:
Joelen's gets my vote, hands down! I'm off to whole food to buy the ingredients for it as we speak.
lritz said:
Darius all the way!!! His food looks super yummy. :)
kayash said:
Joelen for sure!
cookin_w_style said:
Darius hands down!! I'm loving the dish topping of the pan roasted corn and cherry salsa!
Liz said:
I think all the chefs' dishes are unique and creative, but my vote goes to Joelen. I think she did the best job of using the secret ingredient in a creative way and the picture looks absolutely divine. Yum!
charycem said:
Darius gets my vote!!!
onecaseman said:
Amy's spicy meatball sandwich is badass. I would vote for Amy and Darius matchups-wise. Nice work everyone!
bishopjw33 said:
I'm voting for Darius!
dMarie said:
I vote for Darius! YUM!
regena said:
my vote goes to Darious...love the idea of the cherry margarita,it looks refreshing. would love to try the chicken as well.
Rick Phillips said:
Darius gets my vote
britterbugg said:
Joellen and Joey!!!
msmika said:
I VOTE FOR DARIUS ALL THE WAY.
Spinner said:
Match 1: Darius
Match 2: Amy
Kevin Harriss said:
Match #1 Darius
Match #2 Amy
MrsJ said:
I'm voting for Darius all the way
Wise Diva said:
I vote Darius! I can't wait to try your recipe :)
ErinCarpenter said:
Amy all the way! Love the idea of cherry-pineapple salsa!
BangsandaBun said:
My vote goes to Darius. His dish looks great!
Johanna said:
I vote for Joelen! Her dishes sound fantastic and I can't wait to try her recipes tomorrow.
jkeeb said:
Amy's dish looks ridiculously good! I wanna put that thing in my belly!!
Gotta give round 1 to Darius.
FastEddy said:
Amy, Amy, Amy...
Darius T. Williams said:
If Obama can vote for himself - then so can I. So, I pick Darius' dish - the Mexican trio. It was such a great way to infuse great flavors into one dish - and there are different types of cherries at each level in the dish. Superb. Oh, and it tasted pretty good too - lol. More photos are available at www.everydaycookin.com
Sandivine said:
OMG! Darius is the man!!! The meal looks simple to make and delicious!! and the cherry margarita....??? come on... the bomb!!! my vote is for darius all the way!
mrswindycity said:
Darius' Mexican Cherry Trio...delicious!!!
And
Joey: Red, White, & Blue Bonanza
Sheri said:
Joey's red, white and blue made me hungry for some cherries and I don't even really like cherries!
sbuck99 said:
Joelen!!! Yumm!!!
Michele said:
Joelen for the win!
thelovebelow1991 said:
Darius' trio is the most balanced. It uses several flavorful herbs and gives the palate an unexpected twist with the cherry margarita. It gets my vote!
Sean M. said:
My vote is for Darius. Good luck to you, sir.
JJI said:
Joelen vs. Darius
Joelen's my winner. Darius' entry sounds tasty (though I'm not sure why the chicken breast is "Mexican flavored"?). Joelen's sounds delicious: the braising sauce sounds scrumptious, I love the pairing with the caramelized turnip puree!
Amy vs. Joey
Gotta go with Joey's burger, though it was close. Love the sound of the meatballs, but something about the brie/cherry combination got my tongue Pavlov-ating.
UGOTROY said:
Joelen vs Darius...Im going with Darius all the way, both dishes sound good but I was sold with the Ultimate Cherry Margarita.
Amy vs Joey....I am just a burger kinda guy. So with Joey it is.
hatchback2 said:
Darius' dish looks very good. I'm voting for him plus he's a Williams and we stick together! :)
jdroberts said:
Amy for sure. That girl can cook!!!
amy said:
Joelen's looks great! Cherries + goat cheese = yum!
Ian said:
I vote for Darius.
Jody said:
Joelen all the way! I so want to have dinner at her house.
Lara said:
Joelen gets my vote... those cherry scones sound amazing! For match #2 I'll pick Amy.
antwanm said:
Darius gets my vote can you send that plate over?
Onita said:
My votes for Darius! Love the Margarita.
hairgirl said:
Darius i can smell what the wok is cookin! I love Darrius dish because it is something i can prepare myself. I am a margarita critic and that sound like one i will try for sure.Donnita.
sdub101 said:
Match 1: Joelen all the way!
Match 2: Joey
Phy said:
Well, my vote is for Darius! The Sangria along with the Mexican, m m m!!!!
soundforme said:
Match 1: DARIUS!!! Both dishes sound good, but I can actually see myself replicating and serving Darius' dish at a get-together.
Match 2: JOEY!!! The cherry-brie combo sold me!
Dano said:
Joelen used goat cheese. How can you lose with goat cheese?
Darius: sry dude, but the obvious Mexican food suck-up to Mr Bayless was a little risky.
Joey's burger is slightly more appetizing than the meatballs. The pictures aren't doing anything for me, so I hope they taste good.
So, my votes go to Joelen and Joey.
Gregg said:
All sound pretty good, but in voting:
1. Darius - This chicken dish sounds more tasty to me. The marg is a nice touch too.
2. Amy - the meatball sub is a more unique offering, and seems more "comforting" while still being kind of gourmet.
Tim Jahn said:
I'm impressed by the cherrys in the meatballs, so I'm voting for Amy!
pksbetrayal said:
Darius got this one.....doesn't look like pizza, but it's tempting
Melissa Murray said:
Joelen!
Latoya said:
I vote for Joelen :)
Shaeaves said:
My vote is for Darius hands down!! Not only does the food look great but I don't even drink and my mouth is watering for the cherry margarita! Go Darius!!!
Lois Kim said:
My vote is for Amy Le! Must save the recipe!
Jinhee Kim said:
I love my Italian meatball subs but Amy Le's Spicy Cherry Meatball Sub with Cherry Pineapple Salsa sounds awesome! I also love pineapples...so my vote is for Amy Le!
KPratt said:
Joey's looks delightful x 2. He gets my vote.
Sahrah D said:
Darius &
AMY Le's meatball sandwich, mmm...
Ate said:
Match #1 - Joelen
Match #2 - Joey
AmbyNYC said:
1 - I vote for Joelen. When I look at her dishes, I can see how the flavors would go together and make sense. The recipes seems to be well thought out and able to be replicated.
When I looked at the recipe for Dairus' chicken, I can't imagine that a tablespoon of each of those spices would result in a balanced flavor rub. There's too much going on, and some of the spices should be in smaller quanities to be properly balanced with the others on that list. His sauce and margarita are interesting, but you could remove the cherries from the rice and the salsa without missing them-- they're not integral to the dishes.
2 - I really couldn't bring myself for either of these contestants. I had big issues with both of them. I'd rather have Darius come back in a wild card than either of these weird red meat and cherry salsa concoctions.
Matt W. said:
My vote is to Darius and the Mexican Cherry Trio. My second vote is to Joey
Lisa Coulson said:
Joelen's dish sounds fantastic! I absolutely could not resist goat cheese, balsamic vinegar and cherries together if I saw it on a menu. I can tell these are truly original dishes. It is clear she took this on with the approach of "What is going to complement and highlight these cherries?" instead of "How can I fit cherries into recipes I already make?" which seems to be the approach Darius took. I think as a result Joelen's recipes have the best flavor combinations.
I think I might try to make the cherry and cheese scones this weekend! I love making scones at home and I absolutely love cherries!
Kim, Ordinary Recipes Made Gourmet said:
Darius, I'm voting for you dude! Go get em! :D
Sara said:
Darius' Mexican take on cherry balsamic chicken is interesting, but Joelen's braised chicken with stuffing puts her over the top!
Nufferz said:
Vote for round1 - Darius
Round 2 - Amy - what a creative dish!
bmk said:
I vote for Joelen. Those are three fabulous and creative dishes.
Heidi said:
I vote for Joelen, those dishes just make my mouth water and they all sound so great together for a great dinner party!
Chyna said:
There is no competition here. Hands down Darius' dish is exclusive & looks absolutely exquisite! I VOTE FOR DARIUS!!!
Courtney said:
My vote goes to Joelen, hands down. Her dish is so well thought out, and it's definitely something I would order at a restaurant. She let cherries be the star here and came up with something amazing.
KevHead said:
Wow!!! These all look great!! But after looking at all the dishes, and reviewing the recipes, I have to say 100% that JOELEN'S dish gets my vote!!! Looks fabulous!! I'd pay my hard earned money to try that!!! Great job Joelen!!!!
lemonsandlove said:
Go Joelen! You have my vote!
Chandra said:
Darius has my vote
Jen said:
JOELEN!!
Oneman said:
Without a doubt, I vote for Darius!
samantha said:
I vote Amy's all the way. The sweet and savory in a meatball sub with fresh salsa sounds fab. I know what I'm making this weekend.
TheLoctician said:
Match 1: Darius
Match 2: Joey
Melissa said:
Match 1: Joelen!
Match 2: Amy!
SanSan said:
Darius you have my vote...what time is dinner?
amg_2007 said:
In match up one - I'm totally for Joelen. I love the mixture of the textures and flavors, and think that they blend well. I would totally order that off a menu. And, I was a little disappointed that Darius only used fresh cherries in one part! Wasn't the special ingredient inspired by farmer's markets? Jam, dried, and frozen cherries don't seem to follow the spirit of the challenge for me.
I have to agree with a previous poster that both dishes in the second match-up seemed a little off. But in a pinch I would go for Joey.
IHateRegisteringtoComment said:
Matchup 1: Joelen all the way!
Matchup 2: Go Joey!
I would totally order either dish in a restaurant!
davidm said:
Darius all the way to the top!
KevHead said:
This is summer...fresh cherry season. So why did Darius use cherry preserves, dried cherries, and ONLY 1/2 cup of fresh cherries in his salsa?? Totally goes against the idea of this contest. That's a HUGE mistake!! Obviously, JOELEN thought this out and her dishes were by far the best of all 4 contestants. Chef Bayless will not fall for Darius' attempt at Mexican chicken breast - ingredients do not go together - his chicken does not look appetizing at all. And as for the burger and meatball sandwiches - Is that the best you can do? Nasty. There's only 1 logical vote here - Joelen!!!
KHall said:
In the text above it states "Today's secret ingredient was cherries." Sorry "Kev", but I fail to see the specific use of cherry type listed. Fresh vs. preserved? This page mentions "local farmers markets", http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/redeye/2009/06/round-1-redeyes-virtual-kitchen-stadium.html , but did not require their use.
Are you aware of other criteria they needed to base the ingredients on? If so can you provide the source based on your critique? Thanks. .BTW- Joelen used DRIED cherries to make her scone so your initial argument is moot. Also, how can you accuse some one of sucking up? That sounds baseless as well.
Lastly, if you’re going to nit-pick, the rules say: "Your challenge: Make a dish with cherries. Easy as pie, right? Nope! It CAN'T be a dessert;" A scone is considered a dessert when sugar is added. So does that disqualify Joelen... hmmm??
Lisa Coulson said:
Who says a scone is a dessert if there is sugar in it? I would consider a scone a kind of biscuit or roll, not dessert. There is cheese and rosemary in it, I think that well qualifies it as a savory dish. Tell me what exactly is savory about a cherry margarita?
KevHead said:
Sorry KHall, but that scone is a savory dish, did you not read the ingredients? And as for using dried cherries in the scone, that's 1 dish. Joelen obviously captured the true nature of the competition using fresh cherries throughout her menu. Darius used flippin jelly!! And a cherry margarita is savory how??? I can see Darius has a lot of his brothren stuffing the ballot box, which may save him this round after Chef Bayless picks Joelen as the obvious winner here!
The essense of the competition was fresh summer cherries: "Today's secret ingredient is inspired by summer. They're now popping up at local farmers markets, bestowing us starved Chicagoans for a brief fling before you have to go back to buying them for $9.99/lb from Cali in a few weeks." It does not say specifically to use fresh cherries, but anyone who can't summize the intention of using fresh summer cherries after reading that doesn't even deserve to be in the competition!
just-tiffany said:
brothern?............and why so negative....hey if your vote is for joelen......than so be it.....do u really have to add negative criticism?
KHall said:
Sorry that reference to the quote "obvious Mexican food suck-up " should be credited to "Dano". My apologies KevHead
PhillyGirl said:
Match 1: Joelen, definitely!!!!
Match 2: Joey
Preston said:
My vote is for Darius and Amy.
KHall said:
Matchup #1 Darius ...All the way!! I just want to pick up that fork and chow down. The drink looks divine!
Matchup #2 Joey- Very moist looking and the Brie..Good choice.
Joelen and Amy- Too "dry" looking..sorry!
trice said:
Darius and Amy hands down!!!!!
susan24 said:
vote 1: Darius- its more creative
vote 2: Amy- that looks delish! Also it looks like alot of work went into that sub!
dave_s said:
AMY! AMY!
Kevin said:
Vote 1: Darius
Vote 2: Joey, definitely. Can't beat a good summer meal!
Catherine Calanni said:
I am voting for Darius
nick fu said:
Joey +1
Having tasted his burgers on more than one occasion, I simply can't vote otherwise.
Angie0705 said:
Joelen all the way! Her dish looks delicious!
Tee30 said:
My vote is for Darius All the way!!
Zsmith said:
Match up 1: Darius
Match up 2: Joey
Tammy said:
I vote for Darius.
Al Funches said:
Darius' dish looks delicious and exciting! My vote is definitely for something new, inventive and exciting! Darius all the way!!!!
Richo said:
Match 1: Darius.
Match 2: Amy.
VictoriaGray said:
Definitely Joelen! It looks so yummy and well balanced.
carmechman said:
I see people are still sleep on darius.WAKE UP!!!!!! there is no comparison between the two dishes in my opinion.Darius,take a bow.
Lowell Thompson said:
Darius combination and style of using the cherries gives the perfect blend of sweet and savory. Plus the margarita to relax and top off what is the a great use of cherries. Way to go Darius!!!
Griff said:
I agree with KevHead... cherry preserves in the main dish?
hungryhungrybabyhippo said:
I'm casting my vote for Darius. Not only did he explain the process completely but the dish looks very tasty!
Aevans4 said:
I'm voting for Darius!!
natester said:
I vote for Joelen & Joey.
Carolyn said:
My vote goes to Joelen.
Stasia said:
Joelen's for sure! The trio looks amazing!
Qbofdamidwest said:
My vote goes to Darius and Amy... Good luck guys!!!!
singdiva said:
I VOTE FOR DARIUS!!! YUMMY!
Maada said:
Joelen all the way! Love the stuffed chicken!
revalas said:
Go Darius -
Fabulous Dish...Will be tonight's dinner.
Kiki said:
Darius has my stomach growling...he gets my vote!!!
kellyd said:
My votes go to Darius & Amy!
jdcooks said:
Joelen is the best!!! Who can resist warm scones in the morning and the chicken dish in the evening. I made the salad and it is fantastic!!!!!!
catango said:
Darius in the first, a cherry margarita sounds like a grownup slurpee and I bet tastes beautiful. In the second, I love the idea of a cherry meatball...so Amy in round two.
heyDarren said:
match up 1: Darius - a great savory dish that I tried and LOVED!
match up 2: Amy
Skeet said:
I have vote for Amy's Sweet and Spicy Balls!
Kris said:
Joelen's looks wonderful, I would order that in a restaurant.
sandrapolk said:
i like joeys!
queeny said:
My vote goes to Darius.
colicchio said:
Joelen's dish is the best
Shelton said:
Love the dish by Darius. YUM!
AllieQB said:
Match 1: Joelen, hands down. Way to use the ingredient in a multitude of creative ways!
Match 2: Amy
BahamaMama78 said:
In the first matchup, my vote is for Joelen. Her presentation is great and looks delicious. In the second matchup I vote for Joey.
Kirsty said:
Joelen and Amy get my vote. I'm starving now after reading these receipes
RubyM said:
Joelen gets my vote!!!
uconn825 said:
amy all the way!!!
Kirsty said:
Joelen and Amy get my vote
mrspbw said:
Must be crazy thinking that that othern recipe sounds better than Darius'. Hands down!! I vote for DARIUS!!!
jack said:
My vote goes to ms. Amy le. Cherries have never sounded so good.
renzo said:
my vote is for darius, would order this dish anytime
just-tiffany said:
darius plate looks mouth watering...........he gets my vote!
Schramm said:
Darius & Amy...no doubt
Michel said:
I vote for Joelen. That dish sounds fantastic and hers is definitely the best of all the recipes! Go Joelen!!!
vfullart said:
My Vote is for Joelen. looks yummy!
JenU said:
Match Up 1 Vote: Darius ~ I'm a sucker for a good margarita! And yeah, okay, everything else sounded yummy, too. :)
Match Up 2 Vote: Amy ~ Meatballs are probably one of the best foods ever...and I love the idea of the sweet meatballs w/ the salsa!
Faithful1 said:
I vote for Darius!
craftygirl said:
Darius and Joey are my picks.
msjazzy said:
I vote for Darius Williams. I love his recipes.
alexbee85 said:
I voted for my brother Darius! its one thing to be able to cook, but its another to cook w/ some soul...soul you can physically taste! " You go Boyyyy!" LOL good luck!
MVWilder said:
DARIUS WILLIAMS! no question...
Reeree37 said:
My vote is for Darius,I love Mexican food it's my Favorite!!!
lovely1 said:
Darius ALL THE WAY! I want that margarita!
sailordragonball said:
JOELEN'S DISH IN FAN-TAS-TIC! I'll only eat her food! I hope that you win!!
Christine said:
I'd like to vote for Joelen in match #1 and Joey in match #2.
Shandelle said:
My vote is for Amy!
jesus said:
darius no doubt...all the way
WildWhit said:
My vote is for Darius! That glaze sounds amazing!
ms.divinediva said:
Darrius, all the way!!!! It's plate looks so delicious!!!
Tmoney said:
DARIUS all the way!
m_evans said:
Amy's sandwich looks scrumptious!
Jon said:
My vote is for Joelen. She's the hostess with the mostest! Her food reigns supreme! HECK! Her food should be in restaurants already! :)
KingofdaKloth said:
Im voting for Darius...
The process is simple enough for the average guy (me, minus the above average qualities) to follow... It looks great and the presentation is dynamic!!!
Cluizel said:
My vote is for Darius Williams! Great presentation
Jeremy said:
JOELEN, great blog, great food, great person
Amy said:
My vote is for JOELEN for creativity, using FRESH ingredients, and presentation! I am sure it's wonderful! GO Joelen!!!
MissWildM said:
Darius Williams!
Foodie said:
Darius and Amy Rock! Delicious!
MichieW said:
#1 - Darius Williams
#2 - Amy
Both dishes are very creative and look delicious! Should be in restaurants!
GODarius said:
Hands Down...Darius' is the winner... his food looks great and tastes even BETTER...that margarita is a good touch
Amy's meatballs win in the second round...
PS...i love how serious ppl are commenting...
DARIUS n AMY!!!!
just-tiffany said:
this is so sad people.........just vote for who u like....whats with the critque.........vote for who u like no one is asking for a critique.......
Ebony said:
Darius!!!!
LibbyFiedler said:
Darius in the first match up and AMY LE in the second match up -- hands down!
Chitown2Philly said:
Darius T Williams in round 1...you put the soul in SOULLLL FOOD!
Amy in round 2...looks absolutely delicious!
♥Tyrina
PS...GODarius...hehehehehe
Marley and me said:
Simple..
Match 1 Darius
Match 2 Joey
Why so much negative critique?!? Just vote :)
@Kevhead "Darius has a lot of his brothren stuffing the ballot box"- that statement was uncalled for.
anni212 said:
Joelen for sure - looks amazing!
gia said:
Amy's sub looks super tasty. Amy, Amy, Amy!!!
momi said:
My vote is for Joelen. the dishes are simple, yet elegant and delicious.
gemeccablue said:
Match Up #1: Darius
Match Up #2: Joey
alicia said:
Darius and Amy
lui said:
Darius gets my vote
Niki said:
Darius
anniemaelou said:
Joelen! I'm a vegetarian and might break that for the tasty chicken!!
Moe Fourte said:
I would like to cast my vote for Darius! Good Luck and happy cooking!
camnary said:
I vote for Darius
Bill said:
JOEY! I've seen and tasted his food. His burgers (or any meat that he grills) are scrumtralescent! No...they are awesometastic!
Kim W. said:
My vote is for Darius because his creations are not only pleasing to the eye but also appeals to the pallet. Presentation is eveything and his creation of the Mexican Cherry Trio is a true winner by far!
Kim W. said:
My vote is for Darius because his creations are not only pleasing to the eye but also appeals to the pallet. Presentation is eveything and his creation of the Mexican Cherry Trio is a true winner by far!
nnocnt2 said:
GO Darius Go Darius..You Got It!!!! Stop hating people and being mean JUST VOTE!!!
aross20 said:
i would eat amy's meatballs any day.
windycitygigi said:
Wait, KevHead.. SUGAR decides a desert? I put sugar, cinnamon and cocoa powder in my chili. Should I be serving it with a nice port?
ChiFoodie said:
I vote for Joelen in Round 1
...and windycitygigi...KevHead said her scone was SAVORY, NOT a DESERT...
Round 2 - Joey
Overall out of all 4 - Joelen had the most creative and best use of cherries.
windycitygigi said:
Thanks for the correction, ChiFoodie.
Sry, KevHead, I read the thread incorrectly. It was KHall I meant to call out.
jbuc said:
I vote for Joellen. Her dish sounds delicious.
moniquitta said:
Yummm!! Joelen's sounds so awesome and looks very appetizing
Michelle Q said:
Amy's sub is smokin! No doubt it would kick a burgers butt anyday!
I vote Amy!
Elena Lopez said:
My husband and I both agree on Joelen!!! I want the scones right now!
iambillgates000 said:
amy is the winner. go cherry meatball
HungryMan said:
JoElen FTW!! YUM!
synapseed said:
Joelen gets my vote!
It's hard to read that description when you're hungry without salivating a little. Cherry orange champagne vinagrette!?! awesome! I wish I had that cherry scone right now. The chicken sounds delicious (mmm... goat cheese). The turnip mash was a great call! I'll be stealing that idea...
Meanwhile, can I come over for dinner, Joelen, or should I wait for this to be featured at a restaurant?
In the second match up, Joey's cherries seem more well integrated, so he gets my vote
Foodie1 said:
Match 1 - Joelen. Great use of ingredients to create a well thought out meal of salad, entree, bread all using cherries creatively in a savory way.
Match 2 - I love burgers, especially with cheese so I'm giving it to Joey.
Bridget said:
I vote for Joelen.
Reif said:
I vote for AMY!!! All the way! Sounds delicious.
CLJMom said:
Joelen-- no contest
and Amy --better presentation
FayeD said:
Matchup 1 - Joelen
Matchup 2 - Joey
eclarkson said:
Joelen's meal looks delicious!
Alvin said:
Darius' Mexican Cherry Trio is the winner! It's a vacation on a plate! Round 1 goes to Darius!
Hungrygrl said:
Joelen for sure!!
Kim W. said:
My vote is for Darius. Presentation is everything and by the looks of the Mexican Cherry Trio it is not only beautiful but looks pallitable as well. He's got my vote "hands down!".
ahs said:
I like Joey's!!! I'm gonna try this one!
HungryGirl said:
Go, Joey, go. Dairy, meat + fruit = yum. Plus you're so good looking you deserve to win!
Nanno said:
I VOTE Darius, looking good!! Can't wait to taste it!
Bunny Brown said:
Darius' dishes always makes me salivate like Pavlov's dog at the sound of the bell. Darius hands down for me! The cherry margarita recipe will be used for the upcoming holiday!
Soobs said:
I vote for AMY! Her recipes are delicious and homey, and rival Martha Stewart and Rachel Ray combined!
kejustice said:
Jolene, each individual part of her trio is unique.
Joey, I just want to eat that burger!
Christine W said:
Is it me, or does Darius' creation sound exactly like this recipe by Sandra Lee. http://tinyurl.com/ntvg29 I've already voted once, so I won't vote again, but I think Joelen's choices were a million times more creative and original, and the combination of flavors is absolutely divine.
ChiFoodie said:
OK, so I cooked both chicken recipes this afternoon.
The spice mixture in Darius' rub absolutely overwhelms the dish. It is bitter and the spices do not taste good in this combination. The glaze was not very good either. The garlic and shallots did not compliment the cherry flavor in a good way - I'm not sure he actually tasted this, because he would have submitted a different dish.
Joelen's chicken with goat cheese came out wonderful and moist. The fresh cherry balsamic sauce has a nice tangy bite and is very refreshing.
No contest here - Make both recipes and you will see.
financeguy said:
Darius Wins!
DenaK said:
Amy's dish is awesome - I vote for Amy!!!
vanessitas said:
First Round: Joelen, hands down most savory and creative.
Second Round: Joey!! Looks delish.
vanessitas said:
First Round: Joelen, hands down most savory and creative.
Second Round: Joey!! Looks delish.
vanessitas said:
First Round: Joelen, hands down most savory and creative.
Second Round: Joey!! Looks delish.
nupur817 said:
Yumm for Darius and Amy!
JanetPlanet said:
Darius, what exactly is "Mexican flavor?"
I vote Joelen all the way! Her food looks like something I'd actually want to eat!
RSB said:
JOELEN! Her dish is positively mouthwatering,and I can wiat to try the recipe on my own. There is a cohesiveness in what Joelen has given us that I fail to see with Darius. I think a drink is a cop out. Good call on that Sandra Lee recipe Christine! Um, I smell a lack of creativity.
JOEY. I'm not drooling over either dish in this match up but if I have to choose between them, it's Joey.
superdue said:
Oh yeah, his recipe is exactly the same ((sarcasm))! What a pathetic attempt to boost one person and tear another down. Simply vote for the one you like, and leave the drama out.
Well, to expose your pettiness…I found a recipe that has 8 of the same ingredients as Joelen. So what does that mean?? http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20071226232413AAogafn
ItsMe said:
Round 1: Darius
Round 2: Amy
People should be nice to each other. No more catty comments. This is all in fun. Food is about bringing peeps together.
Dorothy Hernandez said:
UPDATE--PSA from your postess: Please, we know this is a competition but it's also meant to be fun. No more catty comments and/or insults. This is all just for fun. Thanks!
Cookieman said:
My vote goes to Amy!!
LovelyLady said:
I vote Darius and Joey.
Cookieman said:
My vote goes to Amy!!
houstonmacbro said:
My vote is to Darius! Happy cooking. Love you bro!
bratts29 said:
Joelen......original and inspiring
Joey........different and intriguing
HeavyDiva69 said:
Love Darius....enjoy his many recipes.
Ali said:
Joelen and Amy!
anne reif said:
My vote is for Amy. It looks fabulous. Go Amy
July 1, 2009
Melzie said:
The guys have my vote. Thumbs up to Darius and Joey!
Daipaiste said:
Joelen's dish looks the most appetizing.
patty said:
Darius is the cook in my book!! Keep on cookin..
emilykharrison said:
AMY.
Paris Pinkney said:
I'm going with the D'Man - Darius!
serafinapekkala said:
I don't see the comment I submitted yesterday. I'm impressed with all the chefs, but my favorite is Joelen's (mmm goat cheese AND cherries? Inspired). My runner up would be Amy.
Lisa W said:
Wow, there is a clear winner! Joelen's dish is a cut above the rest. I can't choose a winner for the second matchup.
Taryn said:
Match 1: Joelen!
Match 2: Joey
Jason C said:
Something about Darius's rub is very off. Six tablespoons of spices for 3 chicken breasts? WAY too much. Joelen has mastered the art of SUBTLE flavor pairings with her dishes! My vote is for Joelen.
Not sure about the meatball sub and burger, can't choose a winner for #2...
CoulsonMktg said:
Joelen's dish is by far the most mouth watering. Lovely photo as well! Another vote for JOELEN!!!
TTissiere said:
Joelen and Joey
Jen said:
Match 1: My vote is for Joelen! I think she did an excellent job of creating a savory dish that really hilights the flavors in the cherries.
Match 2: I was not particularly wowed by either dish, but my vote is for Amy over Joey because I thought her meatballs were unique.
asangel said:
#1: Joelen had me at goat cheese
#2 Amy
KarinaG said:
Joelen's looks so super yummy. If I had time to make dinner today I would love to try it.
luckyfish said:
I don't really like chicken, but stuff it with goat cheese and put it in a cherry balsalmic sauce and it actually sounds good. I like the three seperate pieces tied together in one plate too. My vote's for Joelen.
In matchup 2, I'll go with Amy.
kimz said:
Matchup #1: Even though I'm always a sucker for a yummy margarita, I have to vote for Joelen b/c it looks beautiful and it would be the meal I would order in a restaurant.
Matchup #2: Not quite sure, but I'm leaning towards Joey b/c I love brie!
mamamonica said:
I pick Joelen all the way!!!
tendancer said:
I was looking for a new way of making chicken. Joelen's recipe sounds wonderful.
monichka said:
I think Joelen's sounds the best.
grimgrim said:
1. Darius.
2. Joey.
Minamalist said:
Joelen. Hands down!!!!!
marybeth said:
Darius adds a little spice and the Cherry Margarita is the bomb to top it off.
betty Johnson said:
I vote for Darius, because he brings a whole new meaning to the word COOKIN!!!!!
bergamasco17 said:
Joelen all the way! Her dishes are always the best!!
Marie said:
I vote for Joelen; I have tasted her dishes and she has some great creations
anthony said:
Im voting for Darius and the mexican cherry trio
mslatasha34 said:
I'm going all the way with Darius mexican cherry trio...
Judi said:
I must give that CRAZY ASIAN, Amy, my vote! Cherry Meatballs. Who can top that culinary extravaganza?
hitchman said:
My vote is for Amy
jkeebler said:
Bring Amy Back!!
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