Great news for grilled cheese sandwich lovers.
There is a record number of entries to try for Armstrong’s ninth annual professional grilled cheese sandwich competition, part of the annual Cheese – It’s a Natural celebration, which will be held March 18 and 19.
A total of eight local restaurants and pubs entered the pro competition, with media judging held Friday, Feb. 25. The public can go to each of the participating eateries, order and try the grilled cheese concoction and then vote on it.
The media winner will be announced in the coming week. The public’s choice favourite will be announced on March 19.
“This annual public event is a farm-to table showcase of local cheese and pairings, with tastings seminars, competitions, displays and more,” said Carol Hill-Lonergan from the Armstrong Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce.
Celebrity judges Heather Black of the Okanagan Advertiser (making her grilled cheese judging debut), Cam Luckock of Your Country News, Roger Knox of the Morning Star and Cheese Ambassador David Beaudoin (a huge part of the Cheese – It’s a Natural weekend) had a ton of cheesy fun but a few difficulties getting through quarter sections of the eight entries.
“This was the toughest one yet,” said Knox, a veteran of seven previous judging events. “Not just because of the record entries, but they were all fantastic. I had a three-hour cheese-induced nap when I got home.”
“This was a blast. Thanks for having me,” said Black.
The eight entries include, in the order attended by the judges:
The Overlander – “The Grilled Chamber Cheese;”
Country Bakery – “Ultimate Canadian;”
The Village Cheese Company – “Jalapeno Popper;”
Country Manor Kitchen – “The BC Hammy” (BC stands for Bacon Chutney);
Handmade by Georgia and Co – “Monte Cristo Grilled Cheese;”
The Branding Iron Pub – “Mediterranean Grilled Chicken;”
Wild Oak Cafe – “Bird’s Grilled Cheese;”
House of Armstrong – “The House Smoked Beef and Aged Cheddar.”
In one of the best bribe attempts yet, the House of Armstrong also included a grilled cheese cupcake, which is available for sale at the restaurant.
And the defending media champion Country Bakery added a sword of cubed pepperjack cheese and an extra slice of bacon to its sandwich.
Hill-Lonergan said Cheese – It’s a Natural has expanded to include more than just cheese.
“This year, there is something for everyone to connect to our local food,” she said.
More details on the event can be found on the chamber website.
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roger@vernonmorningstar.com
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