A little competition never hurt anyone – at least, not at Brewery Ommegang’s HopChef competition. The popular beer and food pairing culinary competition will once again return to Boston next Wednesday, May 21 and with it – top chefs, hoppy beers, and tasty fare.

During the competition, several of Boston’s leading chefs will face off in a battle of the brews. The chefs will pair food and beer using one of Ommegang’s Belgian style ales in hopes of winning this year’s Boston’s HopChef 2014 title.

Expect to see these six local chefs competing for the title: Jeff Howe (Teatro) with Hop House Ale (Pale and hoppy with notes of citrus and tropical fruits); Johnny Sheehan (New World Tavern) with Hennepin Ale (Hearty and rustic golden ale, full-bodied, hoppy and crisp); Kyle Stamps (Coda Bar & Kitchen) with Abbey Ale (Rich, fruity and aromatic Burgundian Brew); Julie Cutting (Cure) with Witte Ale (Traditional Belgian-style wheat ale, flavorful, soft and hazy); Alex Jenkins (Foundry on Elm) with Rare Vos Ale (Belgian-style café ale, mellow, fruity, spicy); Brian Reyalt (Franklin Café) with Three Philosophers Ale (Unique Belgian-style blend of Ommegang Quadruple Ale and Liefmans Kriek).

Here, Foundry on Elm’s Executive Chef Alex Jenkins tells BostInno her favorite beer and food pairing, and what we can expect from next week’s competition.

Marian White: Why did you agree to participate in the HopChef competition this year?

Alex Jenkins: I thought it would be a great time! Also,we were about to host the Game of Thrones launching of Ommegang Fire & Blood, it was literally my first day and Rob from Ommegang was here at Foundry on Elm discussing the details of getting the throne in the window when I agreed to do it!

What one beer and food pairing is your absolute favorite?

I really dig on Kentucky Bourbon Ale and tacos!

What are you most looking forward to next Wednesday?

I may quite possibly be sporting a new warrior-like Mohawk for the event.

If you could tell our readers one important thing about food and beer pairing, what would it be?

Really just going with what you enjoy! Experimentation into your own “gateway” favorite!

Any specific Brewery Ommegang beer that you recommend our readers try pairing with meals sometime soon?

I recommend Rare Vos with Indian food. Totally.

The HopChef competition will take place next Wednesday at Boston’s Cyclorama. Tickets are currently on sale for $65 each and can be purchased, here.

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