Serving Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and other towns of the North Carolina High Country | Founded 05-05-05

January 17, 2008 issue


Crank Up Your Crock Pot

Winterfest Chili Cook-Off Takes Place January 26

Story by David Brewer

As locals and tourists prepare to brave the cold and celebrate Winterfest’s 10th anniversary, local gourmets will be pulling out their dog-eared copies of tried and true recipes and gathering their secret blends of spices to try to bring home the top prize at the hotly contested Chili Cook-Off. A favorite with festivalgoers each year, the Chili Cook-Off will be at the Blowing Rock School gym starting at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 26.

The High Country’s most unique recipes will be put to the test by the most discriminating (and possibly daring) tasters. Cash prizes of $300, $150 and $50 will be awarded to the first, second and third prize winners respectively.

As always, restaurants will compete not for cash, but for the highly coveted trophy that will be on display in the winner’s place of business until next year’s challenge. More importantly however, the winner of the restaurant competition will obtain 12 months’ worth of bragging rights that accompany the title. A selected panel of judges will vote the winning restaurant entry.

Last but not least, the Golden Spoon Award will be given to the table presenting the best decorations and most creative display.

Each chili challenger is asked to concoct five to six gallons of chili. Because of the lack of electricity available for heating, Chili Cook-Off organizers will provide a chaffer and sterno to keep the chili piping hot in the pot, as well as 8x11 signage, a white paper tablecloth, serving cups, teaspoons and napkins.

For those concerned about putting out the chili-induced flames, both bottled water and soda will be for sale from organizers throughout the event (bring your own antacids). You might even consider bringing a piece of cornbread if your tastebuds are hankering for a walk on the spicy side.

Although the activities are scheduled to last until 2:00 p.m., the chili more than likely will not, so don’t wait until lunchtime to grab from your bowl and spoon.

Admission to the Chili Cook-Off for tasters is $7. The entry fee for Chili Cook-Off competitors is $20 in advance and $25 on the day of the event. In addition to their chili, competitors are responsible for providing table decorations, a server, serving utensils and a small fire extinguisher.

To obtain an entry form, click to www.blowingrockwinterfest.com or call 828-295-7851.

 

Want To Go?

Date: Saturday, January 26
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Location: Blowing Rock School gym
Cost: $7 for tasters/$5 for kids 12 and under/$20 for contestants in advance/$25 day of the challenge