Dodie’s Cajun Diner at The Harbor served up community spirit alongside steaming bowls of gumbo during its first-ever Gumbo Cook-Off – raising more than $1,500 for Givingmas, an East Dallas nonprofit that supports families working to overcome barriers to stability.
The Nov. 9 event drew 17 contestants and a packed house as guests filled the dining room and bar, buying tasting spoons, raffle tickets and T-shirts. Each purchase helped stir the total donation for Givingmas.
“From traditional roux-based recipes to bold, creative twists, the entries showcased the full spectrum of what gumbo can be,” Trevor Keils, Dodie’s general manager, said. “One entry featured tender duck, while another arrived brimming with crab claws. Our judges had a blast tasting their way through such a wide range of flavors.”
Charlie Stephens emerged as one of the day’s top cooks, earning first place in the Judges’ Choice category and second in People’s Choice. Tina Thibodeaux won the People’s Choice award, followed by Stephens and Bryan McCray. In the Judges’ Choice division, Stephens was followed by Everette Turner in second and Russell Hyden in third. First-place winners received cash prizes; second and third place earned Dodie’s gift certificates.
The judging panel featured locals with New Orleans roots and deep affection for Cajun cuisine: Mike McRae, owner of Dodie’s; Dustin Ray; Kayne Pierce; Rick Carroll; Tre Johnson and Gary Lacey.
“What stood out most to the judges was the heart and pride poured into every pot,” McRae said. “Each contestant brought their own story, their own family touch and their own version of comfort food to the table.”
Dodie’s plans to formally present the donation to Givingmas in the coming weeks.
“Giving back is at the heart of who we are,” McRae said. “This community shows up time and time again, and we’re grateful to everyone who cooked, tasted, donated, judged and celebrated the spirit of Cajun cooking for a cause that truly matters.”