Deep Creek Lake-Chili Cookoff-Wisp Resort. Forget the fact that the forecast was torrential rain and also forget that the fair had been switched to conflict with our beloved annual chili cook-off. The crowds were leaner than normal but the chili and salsa were out of this world delicious! These secret recipes ranged from tomatillo based white chili with chicken or pork to fire engine hot classic red-style beef chili that was hot enough to melt your spoon. It was very interesting tasting the different and sometimes subtle complexities of each contestant’s special blend. One gentleman broke out a 4-story toolbox with secret chili powders, cumins and paprikas and swore that his recipe would win because he used every spice in the toolbox. Another woman with a chili pepper hat pulled out her six shooter vowing to blast me to kingdom come if I didn’t vote for her chili… The rain trickled at times but not enough to tarnish the integrity of this annual event. Is there anyway to mess up good chili and cold beer? I think not!
