The University of Delaware's culinary talent has always been a source of pride, but it's the recent triumph in the ACE (Aramark Culinary Excellence) competition that has everyone buzzing with excitement. This prestigious event showcases the talents of culinary artists across the Mid-Atlantic region, and this year, Caesar Rodney’s executive chef Karl Stoehr emerged victorious, earning first place.

Fourteen chefs from across the region were chosen to compete after making it through the preliminary round of the judges panel review of the recipes submitted. For the regional ACE level competitions, the chefs were tasked with creating a recipe that incorporated duck as the protein, and each chef prepared their custom recipes. The scores were calculated based on each chef’s recipe execution, as well as technical and safety skills that contribute to our overall standard of culinary excellence.

Taking first place, Stoehr wowed the judges with his Indian duck breast, spiced basmati rice, pickled cranberries, and coconut and butternut squash puree. Stoehr's culinary talent and dedication to his craft were on full display as he wowed the judges with his innovative dish.

In recognition of his achievement, Stoehr will be sharing his award-winning dish at Russell Dining on Wednesday, May 1, at 11 a.m. during lunch. Dine at Russell to taste firsthand the culinary brilliance that earned Stoehr the title of ACE champion. Experience his culinary masterpiece at Russell Dining by using a meal swipe, flex, points or debit.

Stoehr's victory is a testament to his talent, hard work and dedication to his craft, and we are incredibly proud to have him represent the University of Delaware.