July 1, 2024 — The latest season of “The Great Food Truck Race” kicked off with a stellar start as nine new food truck teams descended upon NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. Hosted by celebrity chef Tyler Florence, the season premiere featured the teams competing in the “Blast Off Challenge” against the backdrop of historic rockets at George S. Abbey Rocket Park.
Standing amidst icons like the Mercury-Redstone and Apollo-era Saturn V rockets, Florence encouraged the teams to draw inspiration from space exploration for their culinary creations.
“Astronauts’ unique dining preferences in space, influenced by diminished senses, inspired tonight’s challenge,” remarked Florence, setting the stage for the teams’ 40-minute race to prepare their signature “Blast Off” dishes.
Teams such as Argentina’s Empanadas, Bao Bei from Washington D.C., and SOLA Po’Boys from Los Angeles showcased their culinary prowess with dishes ranging from Argentinian-style flank steak pizza to Cajun shrimp and crab curry on rice cakes.
Recognizing the teams’ creativity and culinary skills, Florence awarded medals and cash prizes themed around the upcoming Summer Olympics in Paris. Cooks with Passion claimed the gold with their innovative shrimp and grits “burger,” signaling a promising start to their journey.
As the competition heats up, the food trucks now head to downtown Houston before embarking on a cross-country culinary journey culminating at the South Beach Wine and Food Festival in Miami.
“The Great Food Truck Race” continues its tradition of bringing culinary excellence to unique locations, following in the footsteps of other acclaimed shows filmed at NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
Related Topics:
