A ‘berry’ flavorful cookoff
Four of today’s top culinary masterminds came together to put their ultimate blueberry creations on full display.
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Four of today’s top culinary masterminds came together to put their ultimate blueberry creations on full display.
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CHEF Wado Siman and his protegees during the cookoff.
SWEET and Sour Pork with US Blueberries.
Four celebrated local chefs competed recently to create the ultimate blueberry masterpiece while a celebrity dietitian shared the science-backed health perks of the fruit, as the US Highbush Blueberry Council hosted an elite, star-studded culinary showdown at Enderun Estancia, Pasig, on 22 July.
Showcasing their creativity were Chef Sau del Rosario [Café Fleur], Chef Sonny Mariano [The Matcha Tokyo and Angrydobo], Chef Wado Siman [Brutal, Atina Café and Wadoughs Cake Studio] and Chef Ivory Yat-Vaksman [Chef Ivory Catering].
Alongside the kitchen fireworks, renowned registered dietitian Jo Sebastian dished out science-backed nutrition facts, proving exactly why incorporating USA blueberries into daily diets is a giant leap for wellness. Blueberries are nutrient-dense powerhouses packed with vitamins C, K and manganese, as well as high levels of anthocyanins — the antioxidants that give them their rich color. Regularly eating these low-calorie berries supports heart health, improves brain function, and helps manage blood sugar levels.
Meanwhile, each of the chefs gave guests a taste of the blueberry’s versatility. Chef Sau served the famed Kapampangan dish sisig in crispy mini cups. His Sisig Pie Tee featured pickled blueberries and blueberry caviar. He also prepared tibok tibok (aka maja blanca) made from carabao’s milk with blueberry and jackfruit; and okoy with blueberries, sweet potato, papaya and cassava dipped in blueberry vinegar.
Chef Wado, whose Wadoughs "Just Married" cake for newlyweds Bea Alonzo and Vincent Co went viral, presented a lineup of desserts including Baked Grilled Cheese with Frozen Blueberries. Chef Sonny contributed Duck with Blueberry Rilette, US Blueberry Bibingka Canelle and US Blueberry Beef Bistek. Chef Ivory served grilled salmon with US blueberries teriyaki, some desserts and adobo infused with blueberry sauce.
USA blueberries, which are available in fresh, frozen and dried formats, are fast becoming a kitchen staple across the Philippines. From brilliant breakfast creations to savory entrees and delectable snacks, this nutrient-dense superfood is steadily winning the hearts and palates of Filipino consumers everywhere.
