Chili Cook Off and Stuff

Yesterday was a bit of a rush. My office is having a chili cook-off competition today and, naturally, I had forgotten all about it until the last minute. So I rushed to store after work and then home to throw together a pot of chili before heading out to dinner with some of my coworkers from Cleveland. I don't expect to win. I always consider my chili the "filler," in that I only make it so there will be plenty to serve to everyone, not that I think my recipe (which is laughable) will win.

Years ago, I made a filler pot of chili for the same reason, but realized I had made too little. So I did what my grandmother had long ago taught me to do to feed the masses, I raided the cupboards for anything to add volume -- cans of beans, cans of tomatoes, a jar of hot salsa -- added and simmered to a consistent texture and flavor. That was the year I won.

After the chili making, I went out to dinner and wore my Winnipeg tee-shirt. I rarely wear this shirt and I don't know why. I love it. I snapped this photo last night after getting home. The light in my living room gave the photo this aged, grainy appearance and it appealed to me for some reason. I'm wearing orange today, but thought I'd post this one instead.

Happy Tuesday all...

Chili Cook Off Results

I came in third out of eight. However, I will say that I tried the first and second place chilis and they were definitely better than mine! Mmmm... white chicken chili with jalapenos... mmmmmmm...