Transition Monaghan are organising a spud tasting competition for the South Monaghan area. The ‘Spud off’ will consist of blind tastings of home grown potatoes, from growers in the South Monaghan area and will take place during the summer.

The event is being organised by Transition Monaghan member Conan Connolly, to promote growing  your own food, and to create a bit of friendly rivalry between potato growers. The competition is modeled on a ‘Spud Off’ run in Co. Kerry, which recently featured on RTE television. The competition is open to anyone living in the Castleblayney & Carrickmacross electoral areas comprising of  the following parishes: Annaghmullen, Ballybay, Carrickmacross, Castleblayney, Corduff, Donaghmoyne, Inniskeen, Kilanny, Latton, Magheracloone.

The potatoes will be judged in blind tastings, carried out by an independent panel, and they will receive scores out of ten based on the following characteristics: Appearance, Texture, Smell, Taste and Overall Satisfaction Level. The potatoes can be either boiled or steamed, and no extra ingredients can be added, not even salt, pepper or butter. The area heats must be completed by 19th June, and the grand final will take place in Carrickmacross on 27th June. Entry costs €10 and there will be a registration and information day in Carrickmacross on 7th February. The winner will be awarded a certificate and the pride of being the best potato grower in South Monaghan!

More information will be posted here, and in the ‘Sustainability Matters’ section of the Northern Standard. If you would like more information, please contact Conan Connolly on 0860641864 or e-mail conancmx@gmail.com

Get growing!