Chef Jessica Baldus of Osage Wins Top Honors at Final Taste Event

Chef Jessica Baldus of Osage Wins Top Honors at Final Taste Event

January 21, 2025

The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) is thrilled to announce Chef Jessica Baldus as the winner of the 38th and final Taste event! Chef Jessica captivated the crowd with her exquisite Mangalitsa Estates pork tenderloin fillet, earning her the top honor and a $5,000 prize.

The competition, held on January 20, 2025, at the Iowa Events Center, marked the end of a cherished tradition that has celebrated the creativity of professional chefs and the versatility of pork for nearly four decades.

Kelsey Sutter, Marketing Programs Director for IPPA, expressed her admiration for Chef Jessica's achievement: "Chef Jessica's dish exemplifies the innovative spirit and culinary excellence we have celebrated through Taste. It's a true testament to the quality of Iowa pork and the incredible talent of our chefs."

Attendees of the event had the opportunity to taste and vote for their favorite dish, ultimately crowning Chef Jessica as the champion. Her winning dish showcased the versatility and quality of Mangalitsa Estates pork, as a chowder-inspired entrée that left a lasting impression.

Chef Jessica shared her excitement and gratitude during her acceptance speech: " Thank you. This is really exciting. My heart is pounding. The pork itself was the star, and I wanted to make sure it was front and center. I was inspired by Mangalitsa Estates' pork and knew it would be perfect for this event."

You can experience Chef Jessica's award-winning dish at Taste in Osage! The IPPA looks forward to continuing to inspire Iowa restaurants to feature delicious pork dishes on their menus, celebrating the enduring partnership between agriculture and the culinary world.