Potato Cookoff to focus on Potato Dumplings

Every August the finest cooks in the land converge on Barnesville, Minnesota, for the annual Potato Cook-Off at the world-famous, Potato Days festival. This marks the 18th consecutive year for the cook-off, which will be held on Friday, August 22nd at 5:00 PM. Each year a “seasoned” bunch of participants, as well as many “new potatoes,” show up to compete for prizes and bragging rights. This popular event attracts many “spec-taters” as well as participants.

This year’s category will be Potato Dumplings, and is sure to bring out some secret family recipes! The rules are simple. Prepare your best Potato Dumpling recipe and bring it to Hildebrand Hall in Barnesville on competition day for judging. The recipe must use white potatoes - sweet potatoes may not be used. Winners will receive prizes of Barnesville Bucks - $75 for 1st, $50 for 2nd, and $25 for 3rd. There is also a special prize for the “People’s Choice Award” which is selected by the audience. Another hungry crowd is expected, so bring a big batch along for tasting!

Give it a try! The contest is open to everyone, and past winners have come from all ages. Entries are limited to one per person. There is a $5 entry fee and all contestants will receive a Potato Days souvenir. You must register your recipe by Friday, August 15th. Please contact Jeff Koppenhaver at 218-493-4301, or [natesfarm@rrt.net] if you have questions or would like an entry form. You may also visit our website for additional information, or to print an entry form.

We look forward to seeing you there!