So anyway, as we were awaiting the results of the chili cook-off, my friends and I started talking to a group of men proclaiming they were this year's winners. The results had not yet been announced. Sure enough, this group ended up taking 1st, 2nd, 4th, and a few other places all in the top 10. So what is the dirty secret? According to these guys, they use a mix purchased off the internet. Each one of them does a little something different to their pot of chili so the judges don't taste the exact same thing. Yet the judges ARE tasting the exact same chili mix with only minor differences. I was informed by the winners, the way to win chili cook-offs is consistency and the best way to be consistent is a mix.
I have to admit, I was disheartened by this bit of news. I thought the whole point was to come up with an original recipe. I think using a mix defeats the spirit of the competition. But what do I know? These guys were going to the competition in Terlingua so obviously they are doing something right. Still, I cannot, CANNOT, bring myself to use a mix in the next competition. It just doesn't feel right.
At the end of the day, we made it to the finalist table and got an honorable mention for our chili submission. I consider this a moral victory - since I DID NOT USE A MIX. I was incredibly excited we made it that far. Much better results than last year. One day, I will claim victory at the State Fair Chili Cook-off!
Now here is a picture of the pumpkin I painted for our front porch ( I actually did this by hand):
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