Canada’s Only Kosher BBQ Cook-Off Brings Culture And Flavour to Barrhaven
The Ottawa Torah Centre (OTC) is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated Ottawa Kosher BBQ Cook-off and Festival 2024, set to take place on August 18, from 11:00am-4:00pm at the OTC campus located at 111 Lamplighters Dr. in Barrhaven.
Supported by the Government of Ontario and in collaboration with various community stakeholders, the Ottawa Kosher BBQ Cook-off and Festival promises a vibrant celebration of culinary delights. This event aims to engage all sectors of the Ottawa community, welcoming both Jews and non-Jews to explore Jewish culture through its rich Kosher cuisine.
This one-day culinary extravaganza will feature teams and pit masters competing in multiple categories, including best brisket, chili, and chicken, all prepared in accordance with Kosher dietary laws. Each team will be equipped with a Kettle Grill and a smoker, provided with equal quantities and quality of meat, and judged by professional Kansas City Barbeque Society-approved judges. Additionally, attendees with advance “Taster Tickets” will have the opportunity to sample dishes from the competing teams and vote for the People’s Choice Award.
Adding to the excitement, popular television host Derick Fage will emcee the judging of the competition. Fage’s vibrant personality and culinary enthusiasm will bring an extra layer of excitement and engagement to the event, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees.
“This is the only Kosher BBQ competition and Jewish food festival of its kind in Canada,” says Rabbi Menachem M. Blum, the event’s organizer. “It provides a unique opportunity for our diverse community to come together, connect, and learn about each other while enjoying some delicious food.”
The Ottawa Kosher BBQ Cook-off and Festival 2024 is set to attract hundreds of participants and spectators from all age groups and ethnic backgrounds. The festival will feature a kid’s zone with inflatable obstacle courses, bouncy castles, carnival games, face painting, and balloon twisting. A Kosher food court, presented by Cater 4U, will offer mouth-watering BBQ and Middle Eastern favorites, including Chicken Shawarma, Falafel, Schnitzel Sandwiches, burgers, and hot dogs. The beer garden will showcase award-winning craft beers from Shillow Beer, Ontario’s only Kosher brewery. Indulge in a delightful array of desserts, ice cream, and sweets, all expertly crafted by Keeping It Vegan.
Kosher BBQ cook-offs and Jewish food festivals have gained popularity in many Jewish communities across the United States, serving as a creative way to foster community bonds over food in a welcoming and inclusive environment. The OKBBQ 2024 aims to replicate this success in Canada’s capital, offering a unique opportunity for all to experience and learn about Kosher Jewish food and culture.
General entry to the festival is free. Tickets for the food court and kid’s zone can be purchased online in advance or on the day of the event.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.theotc.org/bbq or call 613.843.7770.
Featured Image: Up In smoke was one of the popular vendors in the 2022 Kosher Cook-off in Barrhaven.
