The Events DC Embassy Chef Challenge took place at Union Station in Washington, D.C. on Thursday night, where over 20 embassies showcased their culinary talents, offering a taste of flavors from around the world.
Chef Jovana Urriola from the Embassy of the Republic of Panama took home the Judges’ Choice Award for her “Panamanian Style Afro Caribbean Chicken Tamale Dumplings,” highlighting the unique fusion of African, Caribbean, and Asian cuisines in Panamanian dishes.
The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China claimed second place in the Judges’ Choice Award with their delectable dishes including “Sichuan Spicy Fish, Kung Pao Shrimp Balls, Sichuan Cold Spicy Noodles, and Snowy Mooncakes.”
A guest named John Schneider praised the Chinese mooncakes, expressing his surprise and delight at the flavors. He also sampled Chinese baijiu, describing it as a unique and intriguing drink that piqued his interest in visiting China to explore more culinary delights.
The Embassy of the Dominican Republic secured third place in the Judges’ Choice Award with their “Traditional Dominican Roasted Pork with casabe and yucca,” showcasing the rich flavors of Dominican cuisine.
Attendees of the Embassy Chef Challenge had the opportunity to vote for their favorite embassies, with Chefs Damain Leach and Ann Marie Leach of the Embassy of Barbados winning the People’s Choice Award for their “Curry Lamb, Breadfruit Coucou, and Bajan Sweet Bread.”
Alongside the culinary delights, the event featured cultural performances from various countries, including Beijing Opera, Panamanian folk dance, and Bolivian folk dance, adding to the vibrant and diverse atmosphere of the evening.
