Bojangles' Master Biscuit Maker Challenge rolls-out 2008 winner

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - A Gainesville resident has been named winner of Bojangles' Restaurants 2008 Master Biscuit Maker Challenge.

After receiving high scores in three rounds of competition, Yesenia Vela was awarded with the coveted Master Biscuit Maker Champion Trophy and a $1,000 prize. The other five finalists were given a trophy along with $250 each.

One-by-one each finalist competed in front of three judges as an audience of staff, peers, friends and family watched and cheered. Each contestant began by blending the perfect mixture of flour and buttermilk to achieve the best consistency possible. After kneading and rolling the dough to the desired thickness, each finalist carefully cut out their biscuits before popping them into the oven for 10 minutes.

The contestants were evaluated on a variety of preparation steps, including technique as well as consistency, color, size and texture of their finished biscuits. Judges paid close attention to details before coming to the conclusion of who makes the best Bojangles' made-from-scratch biscuits. After the strict assessment process, the judges tallied their scores.

"This year's challenge really brought some fierce competitors," said Rene Dexter, Director of Training at Bojangles'. "The standard has been set high and next year's competitors will have a hard act to follow."