Zov’s Bistro Launches Eggplant Recipe Contest

April 12, 2010 - PRLog -- Eggplant, a widely misunderstood vegetable that evokes strong passions among gourmands (they ether love or loathe it), will be the key ingredient in a recipe contest being launched by Zov’s Bistro.  Zov owns 3 restaurants bearing her name and is a renowned chef and cookbook author who frequently uses eggplant in her recipes. She says this contest was designed to familiarize amateur chefs with the complex veggie and explore the wide range of ways in which it can be used in cooking.
   All recipes must be submitted to customercare@zovs.com with RECIPE CONTEST in the subject line by Wed, May 5.  Zov will test the submissions and a panel of judges will evaluate the finalists at a luncheon to be held on Wednesday, May 12 at 11:30 a.m.  To be considered, you must be able to attend the luncheon.  All contestants will receive lunch that day and the winner will receive a plaque, a $100 gift certificate to return to the restaurant, have their recipe featured on Zov’s menus, and bragging rights. For more information, please visit www.zovsbistro.wordpress.com.
   “Eggplant really is one of the misunderstood foods that can be somewhat bitter when raw but becomes tender when cooked and develops a rich, complex flavor.  It is also capable of absorbing large amounts of cooking fats and sauces thus allowing for very rich dishes,” said Zov.  “Besides tasting good when cooked or used properly in recipes, studies have shown that eggplant is effective in the treatment of high blood cholesterol.”
   Established in 1987, Zov’s Bistro has earned the respect and admiration of local and regional restaurant critics as well as the dining public.  Zov’s thorough knowledge of the culinary world, commitment to quality, unwavering attention to detail and adventurous spirit are responsible for the eateries being universally recognized and lauded.  More than just a full-service restaurant, Zov’s Bistro has earned acclaim for its bakery, catering services and cooking school (noted chefs who have appeared include Emeril Lagasse, Iron Chef Michael Symon, David Rosengarten and Jacques Pepin).  It is consistently highly rated in the Zagat Guide and was cited by the TV Food Network as the “Nation’s Number One Bakery.”  She also owns two Zov’s Neighborhood Cafés & Bars in Newport Beach and Irvine.
           Zov also authored a best-selling cookbook entitled “Zov: Recipes and Memories From the Heart,” a collection of recipes, culinary secrets and inspirational stories dating back to her childhood that is available at bookstores nationwide as well as on www.amazon.com.  Among her many awards and distinctions: California Restaurant Writers “Restaurateur of the Year,” “ OC Business Journal’s Prestigious Women in Business Award” “Woman of Valor” by the American Diabetes Association, “Pacesetter Entrepreneur Award” presented by the Roundtable for Women in Food Industry, “Award of Profiles In Excellence” by the Executive Women’s Forum and Gourmet Magazine’s “Best Bakeries in Southern California.”  
           Zov’s Bistro is located at 17440 East 17th Street, Tustin.  Reservations may be made by calling (714) 838-8855.  For more information visit www.zovs.com.

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