MANILA — Four chefs put U.S. blueberries in the spotlight during a culinary showcase in Pasig, creating dishes that ranged from savory entrées to desserts.
The event, organized by the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, challenged chefs Sau del Rosario of Café Fleur, Sonny Mariano of The Matcha Tokyo and Angrydobo, Wado Siman of Brutal, Atina Café, and Wadoughs Cake Studio, and Ivory Yat-Vskamans of Chef Ivory Catering to create original dishes featuring U.S. blueberries while registered dietitian Jo Sebastian discussed the fruit's nutritional benefits.
Chefs Sonny, Ivory, Wado, and Sau greet the media before the cook-off
Blueberries are nutrient-dense powerhouses packed with vitamins C, K, and manganese, as well as high levels of anthocyanins — the antioxidants that give them their rich color. Regularly eating these low-calorie berries supports heart health, improves brain function, and helps manage blood sugar levels. And the best way to partake of these benefits is by incorporating them in our everyday meals.
USA blueberries, which are available in fresh, frozen, and dried formats, are fast becoming a kitchen staple across the Philippines. From breakfast creations to savory entrees and delectable snacks, this nutrient-dense superfood is steadily winning the hearts and palates of Filipino consumers.
Sisig Pie Tee
Chef Sau, who trained at the Culinary Institute of America and traveled to France, Singapore, Thailand, and Shanghai to develop his culinary skills, prepared the famed Kapampangan dish sisig — this time in crispy mini cups. He called his creation as Sisig Pie Tee with pickled blueberries and blueberry caviar. He also prepared tibok tibok (aka maja blanca) made from carabao’s milk with blueberry and jackfruit; and okoy with blueberries, sweet potato, papaya and cassava dipped in blueberry vinegar.
Tibok-tibok
For the cook-off, he prepared another all-time favorite, the chicken galantina, infused with the goodness of blueberries.
Chef Wado, whose Wadoughs "Just Married" cake for newlyweds Bea Alonzo and Vincent Co recently became a social media sensation, presented a lineup of desserts led by his Baked Grilled Cheese with Frozen Blueberries.
Chef Sonny contributed Duck with Blueberry Rilette, US Blueberry Bibingka Canelle, and US Blueberry Beef Bistek.
Grilled Salmon with US Blueberries Teriyaki
Chef Ivory brought in grilled salmon with US blueberries teriyaki, a couple of desserts and the delectable Pinoy adobo infused with blueberry sauce.
The ultimate blueberry creations on full display were a visual delight as well as a feast to the palate — truly a culinary feast that masterfully balanced the tart, juicy pop of blueberries with savory and sweet complexities.
Each dish stood as a testament to the chefs' ingenuity, offering a visual and gustatory delight that left palates both surprised and thoroughly satisfied. Ultimately, this sophisticated showcase has left food enthusiasts thoroughly inspired to incorporate this powerhouse berry into everyday meals.