It was announced today that Alabama Gulf Seafood has opened chef registration for the 9th Annual Alabama Seafood Cook-Off (ASCO).

On May 5th and 6th, selected teams of chefs will participate in a two-day event where winners will receive an ASCO state title, $2,500 in cash, and the opportunity to represent their state on a national stage later in the summer. is given.

“As we enter our ninth year at ASCO, we are excited to announce the competition,” said Chef Jim Smith, chairman of the Alabama Seafood Marketing Committee and winner of both the Alabama Seafood Cook-Off and the Alabama Seafood Cook-Off in 2011. I’m really looking forward to seeing it continue to get bigger and better.” Great American Seafood Cook Off.

“The entries from last year's cookoff included some of the best seafood chefs in the Southeast, and we are not only fortunate to have many of them right here in Alabama, but we also have a wealth of talented chefs. We are also lucky that we choose to compete in this event every year.”

On Sunday, May 5th, competing chefs and industry professionals will be welcomed to restaurant Heron Pointe for a seafood dinner. orange beach pier.

The actual contest, judged by anonymous judges, will be held the following day, Monday evening, May 6th, at Merlin Circle at The Wharf.

All Alabama chefs are encouraged to apply for a chance to be selected as a participant.

According to the contest rules, dishes will be judged on “presentation, overall impression, and method of presentation.” creativity; composition and harmony of ingredients; Proper preparation and craftsmanship. Flavor, taste, texture. ”

You can fill out the registration form here.

The state of Alabama was established by executive order in March 2011. seafood The Marketing Commission (ASMC) was established to provide advice, oversight, control, and encouragement for marketing in the state of Alabama. seafood.

Led by Chris Blankenship, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, ASMC provides fishermen, processors, charter boat operators, retailers, restaurant operators, and others directly and indirectly connected to Alabama. It is made up of volunteer members appointed by the governor, including: seafood industry.

Michael Brauner is a senior sports analyst and contributing writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP