Governor Martin Oโ€™Malley invites teams made up of a chef and one or more farmer, waterman, or producer to submit recipes using local ingredients for Marylandโ€™s annual โ€œBuy Local Cook Out,โ€ to be held at Government House in Annapolis on Thursday, July 16.ย  The cook out is the signature kick-off event for the statewide Buy Local Challenge Week (July 18-26), during which all Marylanders are encouraged to eat at least one local product each day of the week. Entries are due June 1.

โ€œWe are very excited to feature local chefs, farmers and products at the cook out,โ€ said Governor Oโ€™Malley.ย  โ€œThe bounty of our land and water along with those Marylanders who harvest them are keys to Marylandโ€™s unique character.ย  When we purchase and eat fresh, local products, are putting our families first by providing strong nutrition, keeping money in the local economy, and ultimately preserving open space by keeping farmers on the land. Buying locally moves us toward a smart, green and growing future for all Marylanders.โ€

Recipes that represent Marylandโ€™s Best Bounty will be chosen in each of the following categories: Main dish, Appetizer, Side, Dessert, Beverages, Dish or Salad, Table Decorations (Centerpieces for Cafรฉ).

Those interested should submit recipes to: Marylandโ€™s Best Bounty Cook Out Recipe, Maryland Department of Agriculture, 50 Harry S Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MDย  21401, or via email, marylandsbest@mda.state.md.us.

Complete rules of entry and additional information are posted on line at www.mda.state.md.us/pdf/recipeinvitationfinal.pdf.ย 

ย