(June 2, 2010) -- Maple Leaf Farms is calling for entries for The 2010 Discover Duck(TM) Chef Recipe Contest now through September 10, 2010. Open to professional chefs and culinary students, the contest challenges entrants to create up to three original recipes that showcase duck in creative ways.

“The possibilities are endless with duck. It’s so versatile,” said Maple Leaf Farms Marketing Manager Cindy Turk. “This contest is a chance for chefs to use their culinary creativity. We look forward to seeing a lot of innovative and inspired recipes.”

Recipe entries may be submitted for any menu part -- appetizer, soup, salad or entrée -- and must include a Maple Leaf Farms duck product. The recipes will be judged according to originality, flavor, simplicity (easily sourced ingredients and ease of preparation) and accuracy of the recipe ingredients and method.

Entrants have a chance to win one of three prizes. The grand prize winning recipe will be awarded $5,000; second place $3,000; and third place $1,500.

The contest is open to residents of the 50 United States and Washington, D.C. that are 18 years old or older. Additionally, entrants must be one of the following: professional chef, sous chef or lead line cook in a restaurant or non-commercial foodservice establishment, or a student currently enrolled at a professional culinary school.

Complete contest rules and entry details are available online at www.mapleleaffarms.com/chefcontest/. All entries must be postmarked or submitted online no later than September 10, 2010.