The cold,damp weather finally cleared this weekend just in time for the 3rd annual Paella Challenge at the Pearl Brewery. A crowd of over 2000 by the chamber’s estimate enjoyed many different variations of paella. The event was hosted by local celebrity Chef Johnny Hernandez. The proceeds will benefit the scholarship funds for the Culinary Institute of America in San Antonio as well as the Educational Foundation of the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber.
My family tasted paella made with sausage,rabbit,shrimp,asparagus,pork ribs just to name a few of the ingredients of this spicy dish from Spain. They also had samples of appetizers and desserts as well, much to the delight of my children. Stations were set up all over the back part of the Pearl Brewery near the river and attendees could watch the chefs and their teams cook paella and ask questions about their specific dishes.
There were over 17 locals chefs competing as well as others from all over the country and Mexico. The combination of wonderful smells,music and weather made for a delightful afternoon. I just wish I could have sampled the final paella dish from every single chef!
The winner of the friendly competition this year was Chef James Canter of McAllen. I am already counting down the days until next year but thanks to the advice of the experts, I have new and tasty ideas for cooking paella at home, or at least attempting it! What a great event!
Local favorite Chef Jason Dady’s team
Can you believe the size of the pans they use for this competition?
Well I can’t go to an event these days without trying to spot sassy finds. These were by far the sassiest women I met today at the cook off. Don’t you love their outfits! Rosa (in the red) is a local family practice Attorney. Her friend Belkis is a member relations Manager for the San Antonio Restaurant Association. I asked them all about their fashion style. They both like to put a variety of clothes together whether it is something they spent a lot for or the latest bargain finds at Ross or Marshall’s. I think their entire outfit might have totaled $50. each. They sure do know how to make it look a lot more expensive! Thank you ladies for letting me take your picture!
Hope you can make it next year!
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