Judges evaluate the competing dishes at the "Jinhua Ham Cup" Chef Competition finals. [Photo/Tide News]

The "Jinhua Ham Cup" Chef Competition finals took place in Jinhua, Zhejiang province, on Oct 26, offering a culinary extravaganza.

Chefs worked their magic, crafting innovative dishes using Jinhua ham and Liangtouwu pork, captivating the audience with their unrivaled skills.

The event was more than a cooking competition, it was also a platform for cultural exchanges. Renowned chefs from Jinhua's counterpart regions like Wensu county in Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region and Bazhong in Sichuan province, as well as international chefs from countries including Turkiye, gathered to display their gastronomic prowess.

Jinhua ham, a local specialty with a history spanning over 1,400 years, stole the spotlight. In the preliminary rounds, over half of the nearly 400 self-selected dishes prepared by contestants featured Jinhua ham, showcasing its versatility and flavor profile.

The Liangtouwu pigs, also known as "Chinese panda pigs", are the raw material for Jinhua ham. It has seen increased protection and research efforts since the launch of the Jinhua Liangtouwu geographical indication agricultural product protection project in 2021, leading to significant growth in breeding numbers and production.

Chief Judge Hu Zhongying emphasized the craftsmanship and innovation on display during the competition, which leveraged the unique qualities of Liangtouwu pork to create a culinary identity that sets Jinhua apart. "Consumers should experience a truly exceptional dining experience with Jinhua's pork," he said.