Debra Moser handles marketing for Central Farm Markets, which will hold its 3rd annual “Bake Bethesda a Pie Contest” on Sept. 2. She’s also a certified pastry chef, so it’s safe to say she knows what she wants in a pie.
“First, the crust has to be a good crust and it has to be cooked. Many times you will find amateur bakers are not familiar with how to bake a pie crust so it doesn’t get soggy,” Moser said. “A good fruit pie should be bursting with fruit juice and fruit flavor. A good crust will use real lard or butter. You’ll taste the crust. You want it to look good as well.”
This contest is not for the faint of heart.
Last year’s contest had 40 entries. So far, 22 have committed to having their baked creations examined and tasted by a panel of three judges: pastry chef Joseph Poupon from Georgetown’s Patisserie Poupon, food writer Carole Sugarman from Bethesda Magazine and a yet-to-be-determined food writer from The Washington Post.
“It’s fun to watch people get into this,” Moser said.
Entries include the traditional (apple, blueberry and pecan) and the not-so-traditional. Moser said a contestant entered a tamale-like pie last year. Tomato pies are also growing in popularity. Both sweet and savory selections are allowed, but all dishes must have at least a crust on the bottom to qualify as a pie.
Each pie will be judged on overall appearance, crust color, flavor, texture and doneness, filling consistency, flavor and originality.
Pre-made crusts aren’t allowed. They have chemicals in them, not the sort of thing that goes along with an organic foods farm market. Also, no cream pies or pies that require refrigeration. The contest is happening outside at Bethesda Elementary School (7600 Arlington Rd.), Central Farm Market’s usual Bethesda spot.
Entries will be accepted until Aug. 26. There is a separate kids contest and spectators will get to taste the pies after the winners are announced. Check out Central Farm Markets’ website for more info.
