"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - Traditional American Indian Foods Cook-Off

TAHLEQUAH, OK - It’s time to show off your cooking skills at the Cherokee Nation’s Traditional Indian Food Cook-Off. Held in conjunction with the 55th Annual Cherokee National Holiday, the contest will take place on Saturday, September 1, at 1 p.m., west of the Cherokee Nation Complex in Tahlequah.

“We are looking forward to the Traditional Indian Food Cook-Off,” said Pam Bakke, event coordinator. “We would love to see community members, Cherokee Nation employees and Cherokee Nation businesses get teams together to represent their community, department or business. We always have a great turn out to buy the food and would love to have five to ten teams competing so people will have a chance to watch how the dishes are prepared. We have great prizes this year and want to encourage everyone to participate or come and watch.”

The deadline to register is Thursday, August 16 at 5 p.m. On-site registration will not be permitted. Due to limited space only ten teams will be allowed to compete. Each team must consist of four people at least 18 years of age.

Teams may bring their own wood or use the wood available on site. Each team should have a chief cook who must attend a mandatory meeting on Saturday, September 1 at 12 p.m. in the judging tent. All dishes must be prepared on site the day of the competition. Teams will have a maximum of fours hours to prepare their dishes and must prepare enough food for 35 people. Menus must consist of pork, pinto beans, fry bread, one vegetable and one dumpling dessert. Teams must provide all ingredients needed to prepare their dishes, except the pork.

Prizes will be awarded to first through fifth place. First place winners will receive $500, second place winners will be awarded $300, third place will be presented with $200, fourth place winners will receive $100 and the fifth place team will be presented with a jacket for each team member.

Judging will begin promptly at 5 p.m. the day of the contest. Food will be judged on appearance, aroma and taste. The decision of the judges is final.

Upon completion of the competition, the public will be allowed to come through and purchase a plate for $6.

The Cherokee National Holiday has been held since 1953 in tribute of the signing of the 1839 Cherokee Constitution. It has grown into one of the largest events in Oklahoma, attracting more than 90,000 visitors from across the world.

This year’s theme is “Common Values, Common Ground,” in commemoration of the rich history of the Cherokee Nation, which spans 169 years, and the 100th anniversary of Oklahoma’s statehood.

“This theme is a tribute to the partnership that exists between the Cherokee Nation and the great state of Oklahoma.” said Chad Smith, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. “Throughout the years we have worked together to create better and stronger communities all over the state. This year’s theme of ‘Common Values, Common Ground’ reiterates the importance of the continuation of this relationship for the betterment of Cherokee citizens and our Oklahoma neighbors. In our partnerships with the state and community organizations all across Oklahoma we can help to create a better Oklahoma for everyone.”

For more information contact Pam Bakke, phone: 918-453-5347.