You know, when you are a local food promoter and writer, there are certain perks that come along with the beat. My breakfast this morning, for instance, was a couple of slices of toasted Jalapeno Cheddar Bread from Black Honey Bakery. There was a 1/4 loaf left over from yesterday’s Culinary Tour and Lisa Dixon packed it up for me to go. I’m often the guinea pig for local chefs when they are trying out new recipes and I happen to be visiting their kitchens. Then there are the tours themselves. It’s a heck of a tasty way to promote local businesses.
But my latest perk really has to rank up there amongst my best.
I mean, after all, how often is it that you are invited to spend an afternoon looking at, talking about, and most importantly, eating ribs?
And yet, I’m slated to do just that.
I’ve been invited to be a “celebrity” judge at the 2nd Annual Friendly Fires BBQ Competition. And, gosh darnit, I’m pleased as punch.
Here’s the deal:
- 20 teams, with a maximum of 4 people per team.
- Homemade sauces, rubs, and spice blends.
- Ribs are to be St. Louis style.
- Entrants provide their own smoker/BBQ.
There are some kick-ass prizes for the winners, including a SAFFIRE Kamado Charcoal Cooker — a serious, serious piece of grilling and smoking equipment.
Looking for more details? Just follow the link for contest information and entry forms.
I’ll be joined on the judges panel by BBQ master, Chef Brian Henry, Food and Wine expert, Shari Darling, and CHEX Television Anchor, Keri Ferguson.
And because you just know that I asked, yes, the ribs are local. Supplied by Otonabee Meat Packers.
I’ll try my best to not have too good a time. But it’s hard not to smile when you’ve got 20 rib samples in front of you.
It’s a tough gig, but someone has to do it.
Saturday, July 27 ~ Friendly Fires, 981 Hwy #7 East. Right here in Peterborough.
I hope to see you there!