To promote the transformation and upgrade of Matsu's tourism industry and enhance the local dining experience, the Matsu National Scenic Area Administration (Matsu-NSA), in collaboration with the Matsu Tourism Union Industry Alliance, holds the annual Matsu Creative Cuisine Contest Featuring Local Ingredients. Following the heated discussions around last year's inaugural "Red Vinasse Fried Rice," this year's event extends the 2023 Taiwan Culinary Exhibition’s Matsu cuisine voting activities, with mussels taking the center stage. Today (3rd), this second annual event was grandly held at the Fuao Wharf, attracting hundreds of locals and visitors to Matsu to join in the fun.
The opening ceremony of the event was attended by dignitaries including Chang yung-chiang, Speaker of Lienchiang County Council; Councilor Chen Yibin; Lin Zhi-dong, the Mayor of Nangan Township; Lin Zhi-feng, Director of Lienchiang County's Economic Development Department; Tsai Zhen-wan, Senior Executive Officer of the Maritime and Port Bureau's North Taiwan Maritime Affairs Center; Chang Jun-xiang, Director of the 10th Coast Patrol Corps; Chu Hsiu-Ping , Chairman of Lienchiang Maritime Transport Company; Chiu Bo-wen, Deputy Manager of Tasa Meng duty-free shop, and representatives from Lienchiang County's Harbor Bureau. The organizer, MNSAA, stated that last year's Red Yeast Rice Fried Rice King event received a fervent response. This year, choosing mussels to continue promoting the diverse tastes of Matsu was because everyone who had tasted Matsu's mussels was amazed how delectable they were. Their taste cannot be unsurpassed by imported mussels. Through this competition, it is hoped businesses are inspired to present Matsu mussels in a greater variety of creative culinary ways, adding highlights to the subsequent promotion of Matsu's gourmet food journey.
There were 15 teams taking part in the 2nd Matsu Creative Cuisine Contest Featuring Local Ingredients. The Contest consisted of four rounds. The judging panel was chaired by the renowned food critic Louis Liang, with esteemed members including Chen Tsung-yu, the Chairman of the Chinese Master Chefs’ Association, Professor Lee Yi-Chun from the National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism, and Kao Mei, Director of Zi Jin Tang Co., Ltd. Additionally, Lin Chong-chao, Chairman of the Matsu Catering Association, was specially invited to serve as a local advisory consultant. The judges scored based on taste, the incorporation of Matsu elements, innovation, practicality, and appearance. After a fierce competition, the champion was Lu Shi-ying from Taiwan, with his "Green Fragrance Matsu Style Noodles," which skillfully combined mussels and fish noodles using various international culinary techniques. The dish was affirmed by the jury for showcasing the versatility of mussel cuisine.
The event also featured a Seafood Market, selling fresh mussels and locally developed Matsu seafood souvenirs, helping Matsu Tourism Union businesses increase their exposure; there were also fun ocean-themed DIY activities, allowing participants to learn more about the preparation of mussels and the knowledge of marine environmental protection. Furthermore, the event invited the well-known food critic Louis Liang to promote special mussel dishes on-site. With an approachable and lively presentation, Liang taught participants how to appreciate the taste of food and the information about mussels and their dishes, achieving an educational and entertaining experience.
The unique seafood dishes, like Matsu's beautiful mountains, scenery, and rich historical culture, are precious gifts from nature and our ancestors. The Matsu-NSA and the Matsu Tourism Union Industry Alliance will continuously come up with innovative ideas to enhance the tourism quality of Matsu. We welcome friends from home and abroad to join us in Matsu, where various unique isles beckon a journey of Eastern Fujian culinary style. It is hoped that today's event splendidly showcases Matsu's select fine food, goods, and scenery! There is also anticipation for tomorrow's participants in the 8th Matsu Marathon to land on the island and experience Matsu's unique culinary culture, embarking on a flavorful, in-depth island journey that stands out from the rest.
