A cooking competition featuring Dongping Lake fish took place at Dongping Dasong Everbright Town in Dongping county, Tai'an, Shandong, on Aug 5.

On the first day of the competition, 50 teams showcased their cooking skills using Dongping Lake fish as the main ingredient, presenting a feast of culinary delights.

With 50 stoves simultaneously in use, chefs competed to demonstrate their cooking techniques, preparing Dongping Lake carp, crucian, and grass carp, which impressed the audience.

Judges rated the dishes based on innovation, cooking techniques, and taste, with 40 contestants advancing to the finals. 

The Shandong Cuisine Association coordinated the competition with the objective of preserving the fishing culture and enhancing the influence of Dongping Lake's fishery.

"This competition aims to showcase the unique charm of Dongping Lake fish, preserve food culture, and present a visual and culinary feast. We strive to highlight the distinctiveness, quality, and brand image of Dongping and reveal its charm," said Guo Dong, deputy head of the county.

A chef cooks a fish dish during the cooking competition held in Dongping, Tai'an. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_2cc0a8e8d520]

Various plates of fish dishes are displayed for selection during the cooking competition held in Dongping, Tai'an. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_2cc0a8e8d520]