Alabama Food Winners and Taste of Birmingham
Anyone can grill, but when you are constantly receiving awards for your BBQ, you know you are doing something right! The BBQ Stop in Clay, Alabama has won another award, this time by The Alabama Cattlemen's Association. They received the "Bama's Best Beef Award" for it's brisket and mac and cheese. Luckily, I wasn't surprised after sampling the award winning dish because their food is just that good.
The BBQ Stop not only have mouthwatering brisket and home made mac and cheese, but they also have some incredible burgers that has 2 slices of melted cheese. They offer something for everyone including smoked wings, salads and homemade desserts such as banana pudding & cheesecake. Now on your way out, you can also purchase a bottle of their winning sauce so you can have The BBQ Stop at home!
My philosophy has always been it's ok to take food from kids especially if they can cook! I got a chance to hang out with some of the junior chefs from Jefferson County 4H and surrounding areas in the 4H state awards. Students had to create their own recipes and present it and a must have dish to a panel of judges. I have to admit, some of the dishes not only smelled good, but tasted good.
Another part of the competition was called Chicken Que. This is where the students had to grill some chicken for judges who were looking for quality, taste and appearance. My stomach got angry with one student because he did not want to share his leftovers with me. I could not believe someone so young could be go good grillmaster.
I spend the bulk of my time not only restaurants but at food events. One that is near and dear to my heart is coming up Tuesday, August 8th. The Taste of Birmingham not only has over 20 restaurants giving out samples of some of the Magic City best bites, but it goes to support the Birmingham Boys Choir. The students not only learn great singing techniques, but also life skills. One of the participating restaurants is a new biscuit concept to Birmingham called Holler And Dash. They are located in Homewood, Al and serve an array of biscuit entrees. Another favorite of mine is their flaky beignets served with some chocolate dipping sauce. OMG, it is #SoFreakingGood! Keep in mind, since they are a brunch spot they're only open from 6am-2 pm.
Now you can't go to a tasting event without something to drink. Ozan Winery will be there serving their Alabama made wine. They have a new bourbon apple wine that is so smooth, I had to buy a bottle after my shoot. They also have a new Vodka that will soon be on store shelves called Yellow Hammer Vodka that will be available for ticket holders to try. The Taste of Birmingham will be held at The Club in Homewood at 6pm. You can get tickets by clicking the link or going to eventbrite.com
