My first chili cookoff!!!!

For those of you who don't know, my dad sometimes competes (and wins) chili cookoffs. His is the type of chili that will make you cry, well, because it is so hot. For some reason, I have latched onto his chili and have been making my own version for several years. Jan 1 is usually chili day at our house. I make a big batch to freeze and Mark usually hates it. Too spicy. ;) But pretty close to the real thing, in my opinion.

Anyways, at our chuch, they were having their 2nd annual chili cookout this past Sunday. Yep, to coincide with the warmer weather. To be honest, church stresses us out a bit. There are always so many worthy causes that need money and alas, we have none. But I can make chili. It is an apropiate use of my time and talents.



I made my chili the day before and it took about an hour and a half to put it together, then I let it simmer the rest of the day. I backed WAAAAAY off the spice. I think that was a mistake, but Mark doesn't ;) The next morning, I heated it up again, tasted to adjust seasonings, then it was off to church and the cookoff.

This was actually a fundraiser for the middle school mission trip. We served our chili to people who came and donated money for tastes and participated in a silent auction. I named my chili "No chili powder chile". People would wanted would taste and vote. Most people did not have the opportunity to taste all the chilis. There ended up being 10 of all, most of us a little different.



No, I did not win. A "black and white chicken chili" won. Chicken chili?!? I mean, does that even count? But it was fun, and I am glad I did it.

Next up, the "first Friday BBQ competition"!