Here goes...Remember to check next year right after Memorial Day for the date of the 'Bull City Chili Challenge'. It is a great time and an opportunity to meet new people who really (did I say really?) do love chili. This year it was held on Saturday, 6/16/2012. You can buy a sampling kit and the proceeds go to support further development of Durham Central Park, a beautiful and functional gathering place in downtown Durham.
This is a photo from one of their fundraisers...Meals from the Market.
I've been lucky enough to be a judge and hope to again. The process is very interesting as there are 'certified' judges and free style judges. Although you might think me certified in one manner or another, I am an untrained free style judge. One spoonful each and a new spoon each time. Aroma, appearance, taste, after taste, consistency. Number each entry 1-10. Snacks, crackers, soda, beer and water is available to help you cleanse in between samples.
There are samples of chili and salsa. There are free style, junior and restaurant entries for both the chili and the salsa. I can say that many more free style entries (like 8 out of 10) were better than any of the restaurant entries.
Better, what does that mean? Come on down next year and see for yourselves. A special thanks for my friend Julie who met me and watched the grandkids while I judged. I was flying solo with them for the weekend…so look for that entry soon. Thanks Julie, I hope you enjoyed them just as much as I do.
CHILI RULES !
