The Chili Challenge

Last Saturday we had another installment of our cook-off potlucks, "The Chili Challenge." Lauren forgot her camera so we don't have any pictures, so let me describe it to you. Sixteen people showed up supplying ten kinds of chili, all different. There was a white chicken cheesy chili, a bbq bacon beefy chili, a chocolate cha cha chili, chorizo four bean six pepper chili, Frito topped chili, beer and hot sauce chili, and everything in between!

Now, as we have been doing more of these cook-offs we are learning what is the best portion size to sample. In the past, specifically the meatball and pizza events, people were sitting around after the meal ripe for being picked off the pack by jackals. And jackals ain't fast. So this time, especially with the high chili bean content and closed space, we went with dixie cups for sampling, and then bowls once some choices had been made. It worked out well, except for the ultra manly types who felt the cups were too dainty. Of course, the same manly types were the only ones "checking" the balcony after the meal on a regular basis. Coincidence? I think not.

After eating, the whole group played Ultimate Werewolf. I know, what? About six months ago the game guru at the Board Game Barrister suggested it to me for large groups. This was the first time we actually played it. I know it has a weird name, but the game was a lot of fun. Many people couldn't get enough of it.

All in all, it was another fun night. Next up is soup. It will be in late January. If anybody reading this likes soup, beer, fancy soda, and games, (or at least one of the four) and will be in the Milwaukee area let me know.

marc.engelhardt@gmail dot com