Nevada State Dutch Oven Championship Sept. 14 in Reno

Anyone who has ever eaten a golden brown, fluffy biscuit fresh from a Dutch Oven knows the cast iron, stackable cookware is a time-honored way of preparing food outdoors.

Accomplished cooks can bake pies and cakes, make souffles and cornbread as easily as someone cooking on a conventional stove or in an oven. Savory roasts, hams and whole birds can be cooked in these versatile ovens.

There is a good deal of cash up for grabs in the competition and anyone wanting to compete in the Nevada state championships should register early.

On Sept. 14, the Reno-based Northern Sierra Dutch Oven Group (NSDOG) is hosting its second annual Nevada State Dutch Oven Championship at Sportsman’s Warehouse, 3306 Kietzke Lane, in Reno. The competition will be a three-pot format with breads, main dishes and desserts prepared and judged on site. Set-up for the competition begins at 7 a.m., with a cooks’ meeting at 7:30 a.m. Main dishes must be completed by noon; breads and desserts by 1 p.m.

Adult competitors, ages 18 and over, may compete individually or as teams.

Cash prizes will be awarded as follows: first place $1,000; second place $500; and third place $250.

There are no entry fees, but competitors must provide their own ingredients, charcoal, equipment and shade such as canopies, EZ-ups, etc.

Out-of-state residents are welcome to participate. The competition is a sanctioned cook-off by the International Dutch Oven Society (IDOS) and winners may be invited to IDOS’ world championship in March 2014. Last year’s winners, Barbara Hanna and Ruth Myers, took fifth place overall at the IDOS event.

To learn more about the competition, its rules and how to register, visit NSDOG’s website www.meetup.com/Northern-Sierra-Dutch-Oven-Group/events/101664962 or contact Eric Zavala at Sportsman’s Warehouse, 775-828-1500.