Last month, PPMC’s Cultural Competence Committee (CCC) hosted another successful International Food Tasting and Culinary Competition. Organized this year by Anna Berlin, BSN, RN, a nurse on Cupp 5 East and chair of the CCC, and Melisa Stanton, MSN, MPH, RN-BC, OCN, director of Professional Practice and Nursing Outcomes, this much-loved annual event gives staff members the opportunity to show off their culinary talents (and their impressive eating abilities!) while also fostering a space of cultural awareness and appreciation.
“We really enjoy having the entire hospital come together to share each other’s cultures. What better way to learn about different cultures than to taste the food?” Berlin said. “This event brings people together not just to relax and socialize and eat, but also to gain an appreciation for the diversity of their colleagues.”
A total of 23 international appetizers, regional entrees, and delicious desserts were entered into the competition, and more than 140 staff members brought their appetites and their voting slips to the Medical Conference Room to sample each dish. (For those who couldn’t make it to the event, stay tuned for a recipe book featuring each dish!)
From samosas and shrimp fried rice, to pumpkin empanadas and pound cake — all served by CCC members — the competition was fierce. After much deliberation, the judges decided that the following dishes came out on top and would claim a coveted spot on the Atwood Café’s menu:
- Mexican cold peppers — Anna Berlin, BSN, RN
- Curry chicken — Laura Peterson, BSN, RN
- Jewish apple cake — Kim Elam, MBA, PHR, SHRM-CP
After they filled up their plates, staff members also got the chance to vote for the People’s Choice Award, which went to Maria Bernadette Banay, BSN, RN, for her pork spring rolls. Thank you to everyone who participated for making this year’s competition bigger and better than ever!