Five chefs participated in the “Professional Adobo Cooking Competition” and showed us how to make it.
SCHELTZ, Texas — The best Filipino chefs came together for Adobo Throwdown at the Schertz Civic Center on Sunday.
Lexi Hazlett, host of KENS 5’s Neighborhood Eats, served as a judge for the competition. After visiting several Filipino restaurants and her food truck, she found out who had the best adobo in town.
For those who don’t know what adobo is, “it’s our unofficial Filipino national dish,” said event chairman Gene Karangal. It is usually stewed with vinegar, garlic, and soy sauce to add a little sweetness.
“Adobo is part of your home history, your family history, your culinary DNA,” said self-proclaimed adobo queen Nancy Reyes Lumen. I want to, and I think it’s going well so far.”
Five chefs participated in the “Professional Adobo Cooking Competition” and showed us how to make it. The judges had to rate her on a 1-10 system based on taste, creativity and presentation.
“For as long as I can remember, I chose the recipe my mother gave us,” said Imelda Roberts, chef of the Sari Sari restaurant, as she set a beautiful plate of adobo on the table.
Another familiar face was Kain Na Restaurant chef Angelica Guzman, who appeared on Neighborhood Eats in September.
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But Are Cebu Food Truck chef Eulo Jimenez took home gold for his Adobo.
“They said they were so passionate about their food and culture that they couldn’t wait to come here,” said Carangal.
The people who came out felt the same way.
“You never know what you’ll experience here. There’s something new to learn from everyone and so many great dining options,” said Brandon Mason. “I can learn about different cultures. I like watching all these events.”
Karangal said the proceeds were donated to the humanitarian causes of the Filipino-American Chamber of Commerce. “In the past, we have supported the San Antonio Food Bank, Filipino Scholarships, and Filipino Community Pantry.”
It also brings awareness to Filipino culture.
“I think it’s up to us Filipinos to take our food to the next level and serve people who haven’t eaten it yet,” he said.
Click here to follow Adobo Throwdown on Instagram. You can see all dishes and organizations that participated in the event.
