Scouts Cook Up Success at Iron Chef 2025 — Even Through Snow and Sleet
- John Lock
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
The Scouts proved once again that a little adversity only fuels their creativity and resilience at this year’s Iron Chef Cook Off—a highlight event that went forward in true Scouting spirit despite cold rain, sleet, and last-minute changes.
Originally planned for Hidden Valley, unfortunately, the camp was closed due to the incoming heavy snow. Thanks to quick thinking by Mr. Gardner, the Troop was able to pivot seamlessly to Camp Carpenter, where the Scouts had just visited the previous month for a Crossover event. This time, however, they explored an entirely different site—and it quickly became a favorite for many.
The new campsite featured tent platforms surrounding a spacious, wooded area. A pavilion provided shelter for cooking, and a modern, heated shower house with flushing toilets and brand-new laundry facilities offered an unexpected touch of comfort amid the rugged weekend.
Upon arrival, Scouts wasted no time setting up camp, preparing for the stormy weather forecasted overnight. Adults established the kitchen area behind the pavilion while Scouts pitched tents and prepared their gear. The weather held off just long enough to complete setup and enjoy the evening, complete with campfire stories and a late-night game of "Mafia" that grew more elaborate with each round. One highlight? Scout Domenic's dramatic narration of the game’s fictional misdeeds—so intense that Bengalese tigers were officially banned from future games!
The Iron Chef competition officially kicked off with cracker barrel treats. Red Patrol impressed early with a chocolate fondue and fresh fruit, while Blue Patrol took a more casual approach—Doritos and salsa, which became an experimental blend once they added chocolate and whipped cream. The adults still aren't sure if they should be intrigued or horrified.
The following day saw culinary creativity flourish. Despite a wet night, Scouts woke dry and ready to compete. The Blue Patrol’s ambitious omelette breakfast was a valiant attempt (with a little adult help), while adults enjoyed eggs and bacon from Mr. Pawle. Lunch and dinner became the true battlegrounds for Iron Chef glory.
Highlights included:
Red Patrol: Cowboy steak grilled over an open fire for lunch, and a perfectly prepared filet of salmon for dinner.
Blue Patrol: A savory stir-fry with Chinese noodles for lunch and fried chicken inspired by fast-food favorites for dinner.
Adult Patrol: A standout chicken parmesan with homemade pasta and hand-breaded cutlets.
The weather was ever-changing—sleet turned to snow, then to mist—but that only made the warm meals and camaraderie around the fire even more satisfying. A cleverly rigged tarp transformed the fire circle into a cozy hangout, where Scouts and adults shared stories, meals, and laughter.
The day closed with a reverent flag retirement ceremony, led by Kristof. The night ended on a sweet note with a dessert spread that included fruit cobbler, fresh-baked cookies, and even ice cream sandwiches—homemade by tumbling ingredients in bags of ice and salt.
In the end, the Red Patrol took home the Iron Chef title by a narrow margin. Their consistent excellence, allergy-aware menu planning, and budget-consciousness gave them the edge. Still, the praise was widespread, with Mr. McLaughlin—an esteemed camp chef in his own right—declaring the fish chowder from the Bat Patrol “his favorite dish.”
The Iron Chef Cook Off 2025 showcased exactly what makes Scouting special: leadership, adaptability, friendship, and a healthy appetite for adventure (and good food). To all alumni and supporters, rest assured—the next generation of Scouts is carrying the torch proudly, rain or shine.
If you are interested in join Scouting in Stoneham, go to StonehamScouting.org to find out more information or reach out to recruiting@stonehamscouting.org for more information. We welcome young people from K-12 to join either Cub Pack 540 or Scout Troop 513.
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