Birthday Party Meal

[Erin]

My bf''s son turned 10 and we are throwing a family only party on Sunday. BFs two sisters and brother will be there with their spouses all the kids so feeding about 16 in all. He wants to make chili which I think is great, but he''s never done it before without a seasoning packet mix off the shelves. He swears he''s going homemade on this one.

What else can be served with chili in case people don''t like chili? I really wanna make one of those good cornbread recipes to go with the chili. Or what is another all around dish we can make that is kid friendly?

 

[NYCsparkle]

what about chicken tacos..or burritos. that way you have chicken and the beef in the chili. they sell choco tacos in the supermarket. they are a good humor ice cream ...delish

 

[TooPatient]

I love chili.

We make it at home with chuck roast (cross rib roast or london broil usually) instead of the hamburger that you see a lot of places (around here anyway). We also like to use beef broth for the moisture so it has extra beefy flavor.

From there, it is up to what you like. We usually use a can of diced tomatoes and a can of tomato paste as well as a bottle of beer.

Spices: cumin, little oregano, good quality ground chili


For side dishes I usually do either corn bread or rice. Rice is my favorite with it. Helps to balance out the spice of the chili and absorbs a bunch of flavor from it.


For some great ideas, look at Food Network. I haven''t tried them yet but Tyler Florence did a great chili the other day with a yummy looking corn bread.

 

[fleur-de-lis]

I''ve had hot dogs and hamburgers served as well when I''ve made chili for a casual party-- that way the non-chili eaters have options, and the chili lovers have even more options (like chili dogs and chili burgers). Alongside, I''ve made a crisp creamy caesar salad, not only so the dairy can cut through the spice of the chili, but so the health-conscious guests have options.

What are you thinking at this point?

 

[Erin]

He wants to do a baked cheese pasta. I vowed to not eat until Sunday.
The hotdogs and hamburger idea is good with the extra combinations except that''s usually what he makes anytime the family comes over because he loves to grill so I vetoed H&H, lol!

 

[MichelleCarmen]

Date: 10/9/2009 12:28:08 PM
Author: Starset Princess
He wants to do a baked cheese pasta. I vowed to not eat until Sunday.
The hotdogs and hamburger idea is good with the extra combinations except that''s usually what he makes anytime the family comes over because he loves to grill so I vetoed H&H, lol!

The chicken taco and burrito idea sounds perfect and in theme with the menu. Personally, I''d starve with that menu because I don''t like chilli and I don''t eat dairy. lol With the tacos/burritos you can set it up so everyone can add their favorite ingredients as desired.