52 Being on the Battlefield

Each team presented their three-course meal. Other team's dish was also excellent in their own way, but what the judges were looking for—only themselves knew. Three teams finished presenting, and it would be Jimmy's group's turn next.

All five stood in a line in front of the table where the judges were sitting. Beauty's scallops were the first to be presented for the judges to scrutinize. Each got a saucer with three lettuce wraps, and each wrap had a reddish well-seared scallop surrounded by some chili garlic sauce and fresh coriander and basil on top. Another mini bowl with sauce was on the table if the judges needed more.

"Who made this?" asked John.

"I did, Sir," replied Beauty right away.

John waved his hand encouraging Beauty to explain.

"This is Pan-Seared Scallops with Thai chili garlic sauce in a lettuce wrap."

"So you expect us to eat this barehanded?" He pointed the scallops.

"Yes, sir, just roll the lettuce wrap with everything inside and eat it."