Guided by the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC) and hosted by the Global Federation of Chinese Business Women 世界華人工商婦女企管協會 GFCBW Orlando Chapter, the “2024 International Tour of Taiwan Gourmet Cuisines” took place in Orlando, Florida, on August 17 and 18. Culinary educator Professor Steven Peng, along with Chef Hong-Che Kuo who has over 40 years of experience in Taiwanese cuisine, presented a classic Taiwanese Ban-Doh (casual banquet) feast that delighted the local political and business leaders.
On August 17, the two chefs collaborated with local Taiwanese-American entrepreneurs Allen Hsieh and Elaine Liu, owners of the renowned “Sno Tea Caffè,” to host a cooking demonstration. They showcased two banquet dishes: “Five-Spice Chicken Rolls” and “Chef’s Special Fish and Rice Noodle Soup,” emphasizing that all ingredients could be acquired locally. By following the chefs’ step-by-step instructions and techniques, participants could recreate the authentic flavors of Taiwan.
On August 18, a Ban-Doh banquet was held at the ballroom of South Econ Park, which Team Taiwan has adopted, hosting over 130 prominent political and business figures, including the Chief of Staff for U.S. Senator Rick Scott, Congressional Representatives, judge, City of Oviedo Mayor, County officials, and Orange County Commissioners. Director General Charles Chou of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Miami highlighted in his speech that food has a remarkable power to transcend cultural boundaries, break geographical barriers, and bring together people from diverse backgrounds. “Whether you’re an old friend or a new one, once you’re here, you’re our good friend.” He expressed his hope that this event would introduce the finest Taiwanese cuisine to the audience, and through the chefs’ unique culinary skills and the use of local ingredients, hoped to give the guests a taste of Taiwanese flavors and traditional cultural values. GFCBW Orlando founder president Pauline Huang expressed gratitude for the enthusiastic participation of international friends and the strong support from the Taiwanese community that made the event possible.
The event concluded with lively performances, including a violin trio by music professors and a diabolo (Chinese yo-yo) performance by instructor from Chinese School of CAACF, adding a festive touch to the culinary celebration.
Former President of the Florida Senate Mike Haridopolos also gave high praise, saying that through the food, he gained a deeper understanding of Taiwan and extended an invitation to everyone for further exchanges in Washington, D.C., strengthening the Taiwan-U.S. friendship. Orange County Mayor Special Assistant Shally Wong also presented a certificate of appreciation, recognizing the chefs for their contributions to cultural exchange and promotion.
Classic Ban-Doh dishes, including Mullet Roe Cold Platter, Five-Spice Chicken Rolls, Pineapple Shrimp Balls, Salt and Pepper Pork Jowl, Chef’s Special Fish and Rice Noodle in Claypot, Braised Pork Rice, and Deep-Fried Sweet Rice Balls, were served one after another. Commissioner Emily Bonilla, who has visited Taiwan before, remarked that the delicious Taiwanese food was irresistible. She even switched her speaking order with Commissioner Mike Scott just to savor the food first.
 and hosted by the Global Federation of Chinese Business Women 世界華人工商婦女企管協會 GFCBW Orlando Chapter, the "2024 International Tour of Taiwan Gourmet Cuisines" took place in Orlando, Florida, on August 17 and 18. Culinary educator Professor Steven Peng, along with Chef Hong-Che Kuo who has over 40 years of experience in Taiwanese cuisine, presented a classic Taiwanese Ban-Doh (casual banquet) feast that delighted the local political and business leaders.){kind=link}