Welcome to the fifth annual Florida Finders Fest Chili Cook Off. This event is from 5:00pm to 7:30pm. For the past four years some pretty darn good chili has come through this pavilion, and my personal favorite was an out of this world white chili, so your chili doesn't necessarily have to be red. But I'm not a judge either, they are secretly selected each year and no one knows who they are until it's time to judge. Last year we broke another participation record, so I've had to implement an entree limit of 15 pots. That means only the best of the best, is that you? If you think so - prove it - there has never been a repeat 1st place winner, as the Judges change every year.
If you are arriving Friday afternoon for Finders Fest weekend and you've made your pot of chili at home and are bring it with you, just make sure it's warm for the judges. If you're coming in Thursday or early Friday morning, cooking your chili over an open fire would be greatly appreciated by anyone within sniffin distance! There will be the usual prizes of Chili Pots stuffed with all sorts of goodies for the First, Second and Third place winners and there's also the coveted People's Choice Award, which, you guessed it, is voted on by the people after sampling your wares. After the Judges get through, all scores will be totaled and the winners announced.
For all you returnees, yes there will be a Geo Piñata for the kids. For all you new comers, this is something I do for the kids and watching is sure to tickle your funny bone.
Now for the official stuff:
All are welcome at this event - Chefs as well as Samplers. Judging starts at 5 sharp so have your bowl ready to roll. When my chili runner comes to get the bowl of chili that you have carefully and lovingly prepared for the judges, your bowl will be assigned a number, that's all the judges will know it, just what number it is. Keeps everything fair and square. Each bowl of chili will be judged on flavor, consistency, aroma, and presentation. You may garnish your chili any way you see fit, i.e. onions, shredded cheese, crackers, whatever you like, so be creative. No canned crap is allowed and no store bought stuff either! No road kill or mystery meat is allowed. Gator tail is not considered mystery meat in these here parts and is allowed. Only Chief Talking Bull will be allowed to use any or all parts of a buffalo in his pot of Chili.
*There is still room for a few more chili cooks to prove their skills. I will supply sample cups/bowls and spoons for the People's Choice samples. Good Luck Everyone!