In the heart of downtown Erie, Pennsylvania, a culinary clash of epic proportions unfolded at Rust Belt Business Law on Friday, November 17, 2023, as employees gathered to showcase their sweet potato expertise in the firm's Sweet Potato Smackdown.
The brainchild of several Rust Belt employees, the competition aimed to confirm the RBBL office's hidden culinary talents, all while celebrating the versatility of this humble root vegetable.
The rules were simple: each participant had to create an original dish featuring sweet potatoes as the star ingredient. With creativity as the only limit, the entries ranged from savory to sweet, showcasing the diverse culinary prowess of the RBBL crew.
Devin's entry, a cinnamon sweet potato-ho ho ho bread, promised a warm and comforting twist on the holiday classic. Mike's sweet potatoes and carrots offered a simple yet flavorful combination, highlighting the natural sweetness of the vegetables.
Kristen impressed with her Spiced Sweet Potato Espresso Martini and Baked Brie Bites with sweet potato butter, toasted maple pecans, hot honey, and apple, a sophisticated pairing that demonstrated her culinary finesse.
KP's Drunk Soup, a concoction of sweet potatoes, spices, and a hint of mystery, promised a bold and adventurous flavor profile. Jackie's Sweater Weather, a cold-pressed apple cider infused with a splash of fireball and pumpkin spice, and Roasted acorn squash stuffed with apples, sausage, and sweet potatoes, offered a seasonal twist on the sweet potato theme.
But the ultimate crown of sweet potato supremacy went to Adam, whose Legalized Frostitution Cupcake reigned supreme. This decadent creation, with its perfect balance of flavors and textures, left event judge Ashley M. entertained, despite her initial skepticism towards the combination of marshmallows and sweet potatoes.
The Sweet Potato Smackdown proved to be a resounding success, fostering camaraderie, creativity, and a newfound appreciation for the humble sweet potato. As the RBBL office enjoyed the sweet and savory creations, it was clear that the true winner was the spirit of culinary adventure and the joy of sharing delicious recipes with colleagues.
