Summer’s sun is still blazing, and we’re about to kick up the heat with Bloomington’s 30th annual Salsa Contest. Entries for the city’s best homemade salsa will be evaluated by a panel of expert judges. Take part in the food showdown of the year, and revel in the abundance of locally grown ingredients and the culinary craftsmanship of the salsa creations.

Purchase your entry packet for $5 at Bloomingfoods East (3220 E. Third St.) or Bloomingfoods Near West Side (316 W. Sixth St.)

Entry packets include:
An entry form with space to include your recipe
A recipe card
Two 16 oz. containers for salsa
A bag to place them in

Entry packets must be returned to Bloomingfoods East or West no later than 8 p.m. Friday, August 3.

Contest Rules: Salsas should be entirely handmade with fresh ingredients; no additives, preservatives, artificial flavors, or processed sauces allowed. Twenty entries in each of the three categories (tomato-based raw, tomato-based cooked and specialty) are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. All the ingredients in raw salsa must be completely uncooked (no smoking, braising, roasting, etc.) Specialty salsas may include tomatoes, but not as a main ingredient. Judges and their family members are not eligible to participate. Limit of one entry per category per person. Winners will be announced at the event around 11 a.m.

Judging takes place at the Bloomington Community Farmers’ Market at 10 a.m. Saturday, August 4. First, second and third place prizes are awarded in each of the categories.

Even if you don’t enter, plan on joining the fun. You’ll have a chance to taste the contest salsas (while supplies last) as well as some salsas made by Bivi’s Tamales. There will be a salsa-making demonstration by Chef Chris Swartzentruber from Upland Brewing Company at 10:15 a.m.

Co-sponsored by Bloomingfoods.

Cost: FREE

For more information contact:

Marcia Veldman
(812) 349-3738
[email protected]