Our cookoff is pretty simple. We pick a date that works for the majority. This year it falls on a Monday because last year's winner wasn't available over the weekend and it didn't seem right to let him off the hook. We also pick a football game day and have two football pools, one for the adults and one for the kids. One neighbor is in charge of that.
This year we created a Facebook group so we could communicate more easily. And by communicate I mean "throw down some trash talk". Actually - it does allow us to determine who is bringing what...sour cream and cheese from one family, macaroni noodles from another, hot dogs from another, beer, wine, soda...you get the idea.
Last year, our first, we were sure we would win. I was sure I would win with my beanless chili. Todd was sure he would win with his spicy crowd-pleaser. The biggest surprise for us and our family that came to participate: our neighbors make some REALLY good chili! Every single bowl was delicious. Really, really delicious!
Our voting process is pretty simple. All of the chili is prepared ahead of time. The crockpots and pots are placed out of the way and the chili itself if presented in matching bowls to protect the chef's identity. A cup with a number on it is placed in front of each chili. (This year we added a second cup for the kids' vote.) Every "judge" is given 3 dry beans to use to cast their vote. If they really love one chili they can vote all three beans on that chili. If they are torn between two or three they can vote accordingly. At the end, we count the beans...most beans wins! Our winner gets bragging rights and an ugly traveling trophy.
Husband's 2012 entry simmering away.
Do you and your neighbors do great neighborhood events? I'd love to hear about it!
www.jerianne.rnohomes.com
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