Here we are again: I have been the Food Consultant for the Great Garlic Cook-Off for several years, and it is coming again this weekend! My function is to review recipes in June that have been submitted by the public. I receive about 30 recipes that have been culled from over 100+ by the Cook-Off committee. I then choose 15-20 that seem to work for the various categories. Next comes a couple of days of intense cooking to determine the 8 most seemingly appropriate ones (with wonderful help of members of the Gilroy Garlic Cook-Off Committee). We then, altogether, determine 8 submitters who will actively create their individual recipes at the Festival on Saturday.
This year, the Cook-Off occurs on July 30, 2011. We also select 2 additional recipes, just in case an alternate is needed if one of the participants can't get to the Festival. The Cook-Off takes place on the stage, which has been very professionally designed with the 8 separate stations, completely outfitted with stove/oven, water and everything else needed for preparation of recipes. There are four judges to determine the winners, and I also sit in in the event of a tie.
This is truly an outstanding festival; in fact, fêted all across the USA for its quality in operation, effectiveness and success. I had previously not attended thinking it was too crowded or too hot; NOT SO! It is exciting, stimulating, inspirational and so wonderfully managed with everything a festival should be and more.
Please visit the Festival web site for all the info: www.gilroygarlicfesival.com
