This past weekend, Roanoke, Virginia celebrated its diversity of food and culture at the annual Local Colors festival. It was my first time at the party, but I tasted some incredible dishes and met some wonderful cooks.
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I also ate some wonderful food, particularly some Cuban food. I had never heard of papas rellenas before, but I am now a huge fan. It’s basically a fried potato ball stuffed with meat and spices. It was unbelievably good. I’ve never made them at home, but found this recipe online.
Here’s a sampling of what I saw and ate:
Next, I broke out a little mini-story about the making of Lebanese falafel, cooked at the festival by members of Roanoke’s St. Elias Catholic Church. If you’re in Roanoke May 30-June 1, 2008, stop by Lebanese Festival at the church for traditional food, music and more.
Tags: falafel, kofta, Lebanese festival, Lebanese food, Local Colors, Roanoke, tamales, Virginia
Chris G. Muse wrote,
I’m glad you enjoyed Local Colors. I believe it is the premier event in Roanoke.
The videos are wonderful.
Link | May 24th, 2008 at 8:42 am
Amy wrote,
What an amazing variety of food! The Lebanese food looked delish. So, were there Irish and Scottish food booths there or just crazy guys dressed up for the fun of it?
Amy
Link | May 25th, 2008 at 12:15 pm
Tonia wrote,
Amy,
Even the Vikings had a booth there. There was no Viking food, however, there were Scottish and Irish foods, as well as kilted warriors roaming around.
It really is great to see all the diversity we have in this little corner of Southwest Virginia.
Tonia
Link | May 27th, 2008 at 1:50 pm
Tonia wrote,
Chris,
Thanks for your comments. So glad you enjoyed the videos!
Best,
Tonia
Link | May 27th, 2008 at 1:51 pm