The first-ever South Florida Cholent Competition far exceeded expectations, drawing a crowd of nearly 200 community members eager to celebrate culinary talent and unity. Organized by The South Florida Community Voice, the event quickly became a vibrant display of teamwork, tradition, and of course, delicious cholent.
Twenty-five chefs from Shuls across South Florida arrived the night before to prepare their cholents at the Jewish Academy auditorium. The room was buzzing with energy as participants shared techniques, exchanged secret ingredients, and helped each other perfect their recipes. Attendees noted the warmth and diversity of the competitors, ranging from seasoned experts to first-time cholent makers.
By the time the event began, the air was thick with the irresistible aromas of slow-cooked meat, potatoes, and beans. But this was no ordinary cholent competition—some chefs took creative liberties, incorporating specialty mineral water, corned beef, chicken wings, and even kneidlach (matzo balls). Some cholents were so packed with meat that they sparked debates over whether they still qualified as cholent at all.
Three distinguished judges, including Zalmy Cohen, Sruley Myers, and Moses (yes, from Moses and Zippora!), took their job seriously, carefully evaluating each entry based on taste, texture, creativity, and authenticity. Meanwhile, the crowd had its say, casting votes for their favorites. In a striking moment of hashgacha pratis (divine providence), the judges’ top choice matched exactly with the people’s favorite.
The winner of the South Florida Community Voice Cholent contest is Rabbi Shmaya and the Jewish Center of Hollywood. Their approach set them apart—they didn’t just cook; they nurtured their cholent all day long, carefully adjusting flavors and ensuring the perfect consistency. Their dedication paid off, as their cholent stood out for its depth of flavor, perfectly balanced seasoning, and meticulous attention to texture.
The competition’s success wouldn’t have been possible without its sponsors. Rita’s provided delicious ices, a refreshing treat that was a hit among attendees. KC Market generously supplied all the food, enhancing the experience for everyone. And Optimum Bank’s $5,000 grand prize sponsorship brought an extra level of excitement, encouraging competitors to bring their best.
We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Optimum Bank for their generous support in making this event a success. Their commitment to the community is truly commendable, and their sponsorship played a crucial role in elevating the competition to new heights.
The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many calling it one of the most enjoyable community events of the year. One particularly memorable moment was a husband-and-wife duo competing against each other, creating an exciting dynamic that had the crowd engaged and entertained. Attendees were also surprised at just how seriously people take their cholent, with heated discussions about technique, seasoning, and what truly defines the dish.
Encouraged by the enthusiasm, organizers are already planning next year’s event on a national scale. They hope to bring together cholent masters from across the country for an even bigger and better competition.
A special thank you to the participating Shuls:
- Beis 3770 Shul (Chabad)
- Chabad Las Olas
- Talmudical University of FL, Miami Beach
- Kahal Sephardim of NMB
- Magen David North Miami Beach
- Kahal Chasidim Surfside
- Young Israel of Boca Raton
- Chabad Central Boca Raton
- Chabad of Walnut Creek
- LChaim
- Chabad Minyan, The Jewish Center, Hollywood
- Sephardic Minyan, The Jewish Center
- Khal Kedushas Levi
- JLC Miami Beach
- Khal Anshei Deerfield
- Young Anash of Coral Springs (Chabad)
- Delray Torah Center
- Yeshiva Mevakshei Emes
- Mikdash Melech
- Nefesh Elokit
- Nahar Shalom
- Sephardic Center Surfside
- Bais Mordecai Hollywood Kollel
Stay tuned for updates on the winners and more details in upcoming editions! And if you have feedback or suggestions, we’d love to hear from you. Please send your thoughts to [email protected].
