In this photo: Nycci Nellis, Chef Jovana Urriola, GRUFOLPAWA’s dancer, Angie Gates / President and CEO Events DC
The Embassy of Panama in the United States, with the participation of the Panamanian Chef, Jovana Urriola, was the winner of the "DC Embassy Chef Challenge", an event held in Washington D.C., last Thursday, March 7, 2024, in which 23 diplomatic representations from around the world participated.
March 7, 2024. Chef Jovana Urriola stood out by winning this renowned and traditional competition, which more than 1,200 people attended. Five jurors unanimously selected Panama as the night's best dish, highlighting that the Panamanian Embassy booth provided the "complete experience" they sought to award. It is the first time Panama has won this competition, which has been held for 15 years.
The chef presented a dish called "Dumpling stuffed with chicken tamale with an Afro-Caribbean sauce,” inspired by the diversity of cultures and culinary influences that coexist in Panama and define us as a nation.
At the event, the Embassy took the opportunity to offer information about Panama, including how to get there, what to visit, our cultural and gastronomic richness, and well-known biodiversity. The Folkloric Group of Panama in Washington (GRUFOLPAWA) made the attendees dance traditional dances such as the Danesa and the VivaPanamá.
Ambassador Ramon Martinez participated in the event and shared with the team the pride for Panama's achievement at this cultural event held in the capital of the United States. He congratulated Chef Urriola on her outstanding participation, charisma, and indisputable talent in culinary art.
Chef Jovana Urriola has more than a decade of experience in various culinary environments. In 2018, she won second place in the international competition "Top Chef Panama." She also owns the restaurant Artisan Kitchen in Casco Viejo, Panama City.
In the drinks category, we participated with a tropical punch called "Diablo Rojo." It is an exquisite mixture of Panamanian rum, fruits such as pineapple, saril, and lemon, with a touch of chili pepper and coconut fragrance that symbolizes the warmth of the Panamanian tropical climate and our sense of adventure.
The executive Chef of the White House was among the judges. The event gave foodies in D.C. the opportunity to sample food from each country.