Hamm wins SPAM™ crown at State Fair, follows with national title

Cathy Hamm

Hamm's winning entry: Teriyaki Bites

By whipping up a delicacy she calls "Island Teriyaki Bites," Cathy Hamm of Dallas has captured Hormel Foods' top prize in the National Best SPAM™ Recipe Contest.

The Texas flight attendant placed first in the 2005 State Fair of Texas competition in October, guaranteeing advancement and a shot at the Nationals in Minnesota. Next stop? Top prize and a $2,500 cash prize from Hormel Foods. Hamm's recipe features marinated and grilled SPAM™ Lite combined with pineapple, green onions, shredded carrots, and ginger.

According to Hormel, almost 1,000 individuals entered official SPAM™ recipe contests at state and county fairs in 2005. Recipes are judged on taste, originality and presentation. First place finishers at each fair win $150 and advance to national judging.

The State Fair of Texas SPAM™ competition is part of an annual line-up of Creative Arts cooking activities and contests. The 2006 calendar of events, including rules and regulations, will be published in the department's premium book, available online at www.bigtex.com in June.

Cooks wanting to try Hamm's "Island Teriyaki Bites" should visit the grand prize-winning recipe page at www.spam.com/es/05_Grand_Prize_Winner_Adult.htm.

Contact: Public Relations, 214-421-8715 or pr@bigtex.com.