Last weekend, we were pleased to judge the 31st Annual New England Regional Chili Cook Off in Somers, Connecticut. This was the first formal judging for Chris, who was certified as an official chili judge last year by the International Chili Society, while Amy was just judging unofficially. It was a gorgeous spring day and the scent of cooking meat, chili powder, peppers and spices filled the air. Chili cooks from all over the U.S.were present, including some former world champions. Divisions included salsa, chili verde, red chili and one for the "yutes." There were vendors selling their wares, a fun jug-style marching band, and the Spud Studs were there with their Big Idaho Potato Truck. We had a great time, and even better, the proceeds go to support the Patriot Guard Riders and the Somers Fire Department. Kudos to organizer Mad Mike Freedman and all the NERCC sponsors for another outstanding event!
UPDATE: THE WINNERS:
UPDATE: THE WINNERS:
- Yute Division Connor Gramm, PA
- People's Choice Chris Flahive, Yacht Club Chili, MA
- Salsa, Steve Stark, MA
- Chili Verde (Green Chili), Max Tankis, MA (whose grandfather is a past green chili world champ)
- Red Chili, Judi Omerza, PA (who won red chili last year, also!)
Sponsors
Spooning out chili
Gorilla Chili
The Hidden Still of Ellington CT
Fun displays
Cooking with "moxie"
The Squad from the Somers Fire Department
Shop Rite and Mad Mike's Killer Chili
Mad Hatter Chili of Enfield, CT
The Saloon
Freddy Beach Chili Co.
Big Idaho Potato Truck
The Spud Studs
A Couple in the Kitchen Spud Selfie
Kung Fu Chili Kids entered the "Yute" Division
Stirring Chili with a big stick
Chili-themed wares
Color Guard
The National Anthem, sung and signed
Organizer Mad Mike Freedman and honored guests
Trophies and Cash Prizes for the Winners
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