Stephanie Klein-Davis/The Roanoke Times

UPDATE: Sources tell me the Souper Bowl is SOLD OUT!

One week before America’s top professional football teams battle it out on the field, some local cooks will be tackling the title of Roanoke’s best soupmaker.

While there’s little we can do to influence the outcome of the Super Bowl, we can have a huge impact on the Souper Bowl, a fun charity event that benefits the Rescue Mission of Roanoke and Roanoke Area Ministries.

On Jan. 31, more than 20 chefs and kitchen managers from Roanoke restaurants, catering companies and nonprofit organizations will each make 5 gallons of their signature soups. Ticket holders will converge on Center in the Square to taste these soups and vote on their favorites.

The winner gets major bragging rights, while each ticket holder will receive a handmade soup bowl from the Blue Ridge Potters Guild — a $10 to $15 value.

I’ve seen these bowls, and they are gorgeous, varying wildly in color and design. They are for take-home only, though. Disposable cups will be available for the actual tastings.

Judging by the culinary talent involved in this event, I can only imagine the soups will be as lovely as the bowls.

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