THE SCANDAL
Saturday, a hot muggy August evening in Kent Ohio, was to be the evening to finally end the controversy over who has the better corn Szalay’s or Rufener’s. Today the controversy lives on.The corn arrived from both locations and was kept separated until it went in the pots. Sealed envelopes contain which color corn holder was from which farm. The final vote 11 Szalay’s 9 Rufener’s. When the envelopes were opened there had been a clear case of tampering. The names had been cleverly changed in each envelope and one envelope (the Rufener’s had clear signs of tampering) The evidence has been turned over to the authorities and there is nothing left to do but attempt to clear the controversy up next year. As organizer of this years event I apologize for the lapse of security and this will need to be improved for next year. The result will stand this year with an asterisk next to it “*they cheated” and the preparations will begin for next year.
THE MEAL
Lots of food!!! The meal started with mussels from Aunt Bethy. My favorite of the night. The mussel juice could also be worn as a decoration if needed. Elyse made a slaw with kohlrabi and zucchini, the flavors and textures from these elements really added to a traditional slaw. I smoked a brisket from Duma’s Meats using the rub Tom and Jeff brought back from Texas. Brisket has turned into one of my favorites to smoke. The sauce everyone seemed to like was a Texas tradition – pan juices and ketchup. Simple is the best sometimes.
The shrimp was done with a boil of beer and Pensey’s shrimp and crab boil.
The corn well what can you say it was great! I did a sample of smoked corn that was soaked in ice water for 2 hours and then wrapped in bacon and smoked for an hour. This will be done again! There were some chicken wings that were smoked that were gone at the end of the day but not my favorite. Potatoes from Birdsong farms were grill in pouches with olive oil for 1 hour. There were 3 different types a red skinned, purple skinned and a gold fleshed. For dessert peach pies from Beckwith’s Orchard and home made Cinnamon Ice Cream. I will put up some recipes later.Â
A special thanks from all of us to (oh this is hard to say) Beth for all her help with this meal. We could not have done with out her. And to all of the judges who resisted most offers of bribery to put on a scandal marred contest that has resolved nothing. Here is to next year!
Lettuce Never Squash Our Love 
FANTASTIC!! Loved this! I, for one am thrilled there was a scandal,(though I remain loyal to you know who) so as to have to do a repeat next year! Whatever do you mean wearing the mussel juice as a decoration? Who would do that? Everything was so wonderful I especially loved the smoked corn. That was outstanding. Bob ate half his weight in shrimp, well that could be a slight exaggeration, but he ate a lot of it. One of his favorites. Love those deck parties! Thanks for a great time and it was so nice to see everybody. Side note: Care , uh Care, could you get me some more ice cream, a shirt and some pepper , hon, hon?
Oh, Kim , you are so welcome! I know how that pained you:)
Ohhh how fun! I loved the scandal as well. I didn’t know you used the rub from TX….so cool. You made amazing food! I have to say I have never eaten that much corn….but I could stop myself! I also have to say I slightly preferred Rufeners but both outstanding!
Yes the rub was very similar to the one I would normally use to do a brisket for the family. Not a lot of heat but some good flavor. So thanks for helping the meal along!
I agree Rufener’s is really a good quality corn. I will get you your check tomorrow. I have just eaten corn this time of year and am happy to do it.
I have to say, we love our family and friends, and I think, good times were had by all involved! L running back and forth eating cinnamon ice cream from her Mama and from Grampy was the highlight of my night! Also,. E’s love of the dirt from the hibiscus tree was hilarious!
I agree, Carolyn! The girls were adorable! I loved the running back and forth man is she smart lol.
What a great dinner! I know the corn was supposed to be the focus, but for me nothing beats peach pie and cinnamon ice cream on the deck. It’s just the perfect late summer dessert.