A new winner was crowned at the annual rodeo week chili cook-off on Sept. 3, and the reason for the win came down to one key word – bacon.
After taste testing each of the 12 entries, judges Andre Chamberland, St. Paul Ag Society president; Kevin Bernhardt, vice-president with the St. Paul & District Chamber of Commerce; and Hinano Rosa, executive director at the Mannawanis Native Friendship Centre, all agreed that the chili made by Northern Source Rentals was superior to the rest, despite some obvious bribery taking place.
“It was very different,” said Chamberland, as he described why he supported Northern Source as the winning team. “I loved the bacon in it.”
“It was just good chili,” added Rosa, who was attending the event for the first time ever. Although there was a large line of people lined up, eager to taste some of the chili on display, Rosa said he felt even more people should be aware of the event.
“It’s an excellent opportunity for the community,” said Rosa.
Bernhardt said he felt the “community spirit” came out strong on Thursday afternoon. Despite some cooler temperatures, the parking lot at the Co-op Mall was jam packed with vehicles.
A total of 12 teams took part in the chili cook-off this year, according to Janelle Faryna, marketing supervisor at the Co-op. She was pleased with Thursday’s event, saying it went well and she once again anticipates an even bigger event next year.
Second place at the 2015 chili cook-off went to the Co-op Mall Merchants team, while Property Guys took third place.
On hand cooking, stirring and dishing out the prize-winning chili was Northern Source representatives Bryce Balmer and Richard Brodziak. Balmer says he got sick of losing after entering the competition for a couple years, and is happy to have been crowned this year’s winner.
With a laugh, he adds, “If we keep winning, we’ll keep sponsoring (the event).” Because the event takes place outdoors, Northern Source has been sponsoring power for the event, keeping all the pots of chili warm.
When asked what their secret to winning was, both Balmer and Brodziak agree – it was the bacon. Standing near the pot of chili, the smell of the not-so-secret ingredient is obvious.
“I’ve got a feeling there will be a lot more bacon next year,” says Brodziak, with a laugh.