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A Fairfax County 10th grader advanced from roughly 250 entrants to become one of five finalists in a national student cooking competition held in Arlington.

Safaa Haizoun, a Virginia Virtual Academy student, secured a place in the K12 National Student Cook-Off after submitting an original creamy masala chicken recipe in early June. Virginia Virtual Academy is an online program offered through multiple public school districts across the state.

The initial entry required Haizoun to provide an ingredient list, explain the inspiration behind the dish, note how long it took to prepare and submit three photos documenting the cooking process.

Haizoun said the recipe was designed to pair bold flavors with comforting textures, balancing a creamy base, warm spices and vibrant colors with soft, sticky rice.

Judges considered whether each submission followed the contest guidelines, its visual appeal, its originality and how inventively the student used the ingredients.

At the June 5 finals, hosted for the third year at Kitchen of Purpose in Arlington, Haizoun prepared lamb chops with sweet potato, carrots and Bartlett pear. A pancake-style dessert topped with fresh cherries followed.

Haizoun said the menu was a chance to step outside the familiar and attempt something new.

The judges’ top selection will receive a $1,000 grand prize. Mini cooking episodes featuring all five finalists are scheduled for release July 1, followed by public voting from July 6 through July 17 for a separate $250 People’s Choice award.

Both winners are set to be announced July 31.