The Negros Oriental Tourism Council (NOTC), together with the Provincial Tourism Office (PTO), is launching a contest to determine the best ham maker in the province.{{more}}
The Hamon Culinary Competition, scheduled for 9 a.m. of December 14 at the Sidlakang Negros Village, is one of the activities designed to drum up the excitement of the season of Advent.
So far, five contestants coming from as many local government units, have signed up for the contest.
Lutong Garbo Committee Chair Sylvia Uy identified the contestants as coming from Valencia, Sibulan, Tayasan, Sta. Catalina, and Ayungon.
Many more LGUs are expected to join the ham-based cooking contest which is open to all Negrense who are duly endorsed by the local executives.
Uy said the contestant is required to use indigenous seasoning or spices for the commercial pork ham. It is a dish based on the traditional Christmas ham, Uy added.
The competition provides a spectacular showcase for local chefs to show their skills, techniques and culinary styles in cooking ham the Sidlakang Negros way, the Provincial Tourism Council stated.
The ham cooking competition is one of the highlights of Christmas activities dubbed “Pasko sa Sidlakan Ko 2010” which banner theme: “The Spirit of Christmas, shaping the communities together the Sidlakang Negros Way.”
Prizes are P10,000 for 1st prize, P7,000 for 2nd and P5,000 for 3rd prize, plus a trophy. A consolation prize of P2,5000 will be awarded to the other contestants. (PIA/JCT)