Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Culinary Fusion goes to Ozamis City


AFTER several culinary shows done here in Cagayan de Oro City, it was about time to "invade" neighboring towns and cities. As a start, Ozamis City was chosen because of its accessibility and the availability and freshness of their produce, be it sea foods, meats, vegetables or fruits.

"Culinary Fusion with Chef Ed (Part 5)...Goes to Ozamis" became a reality last November 15, 2008 at the White Plains Hall along Ledesma Extension. With almost 200 participants in attendance, it was, according to the locals, one for the books. I was told that there were several cooking shows before but never with such a big crowd.

Nevertheless, the show started at a little past 1 p.m. since many were still coming in. A total of 12 sumptuous, elegant and simple to prepare dishes, ranging from appetizers to soups to main courses, were demonstrated. Having a camera focused on the presentation made it more well-defined to the audience. Pat and Jonas of WMST were very professional and efficient in assisting me all throughout the activity.

Curried Pasta Salad with Shrimps, Tomatoes and Jicama was the first recipe to be tackled. Several recipes using sea foods like shrimps and squids were demonstrated because of the fact that Ozamis is well known for them. Soup included Corn Chowder; Rice dishes were Paella Negra (using fresh squids) and Tropical Holiday Rice Ring; Pasta Dishes included Spicy Shrimp Pasta in Tomato Sauce, Ham and Pasta in Creamy Poppyseed Sauce, Vegetarian Spaghetti (for those watching their diets); plus the very spicy Garlic Chicken, Mango Pork Stir-fry, Savoury Pork and Mushroom Crepes, Stir-Fry Squid with Dried Red Peppers and Beef Steak (Chinese Style).

Participants from as far as Jose Rizal Memorial State College of Dapitan City headed by HRM dean Wilfredo Carreon and faculty members: Ms. Merason Empeynado, Ms. Grace Sabanal, Ms. Blanca Sy and students; Medina College with HRM dean Janet de Leon and Students; Faculty members of North Mindanao Colleges, Misamis University College of Law (Mr. Graciano Galay Jr. and company), Medina College of Law (Ms. Daisy de la Cruz and company); Ms. Marivic Quilo and company of Molave, Zamboanga del Sur; Ms. Breezy Jimenez and company of Tubod, Lanano de Norte; Bombom Alas and company of Aloran, Misamis Occidental; and of course participants from Ozamis City.

The finished dishes were displayed and later on delightfully savored by everyone. Needless to say, everyone had a grand time learning new recipes and techniques.

The show was ably emceed by Ms. Breezy Jimenez. Christmas carols were played throughout the presentation and made the activity more joyful. Mr. Kevin of JRMSC rendered a wonderful song during the break and was cheered well by the participants.

We would like to thank our sponsors for their invaluable help: Zuluz Shell Station (gas stove & LPG), Jal Printers (recipes printing), Bernal Bakery (sliced bread), Crown Paper & Stationary (envelopes and pens), IMT Meatshop (meat products), and Dignos Poultry Farm (dressed chicken) of Ozamis City, Sentro 1850 Restaurant (plates), Culinary Connection (pasta and canned tomatoes) of Cagayan de Oro City, and Peotraco Industries (Manila).

Special thanks to: Mr. Jun and Ms. Jing of JunJing Pawnshop (ticket outlet), Ms. Irene of Country Lodge and Asian Hotel (for room accommodations), Ms. Marivic Quilo, Ms. Daisy de la Cruz, Ms. Bernie Mae Bingoy, Mr. Melvin Cabbeth and company of Y96 FM, and of course to Andres Eligan Jr. and Orville Quillo of AEJr Productions in bringing this Culinary Event to Ozamis City.

By the way, I would like to invite everyone to join us in Dipolog City come December 6, 2008 at the Dipolog Medical Center Auditorium for another delightful event entitled "Culinary Fusion with Chef Ed...Goes to Dipolog." Chef Meka, CCA graduate and faculty member of DMC will be my partner in this undertaking. See you all there!

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cagayan-de-oro/culinary-fusion-goes-ozamis-city

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