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Tagsmeat (and pie) fest!
I’ve been an unabashed meat eater for years now, after a brief faux-vegetarian stint in high school. Sometimes this aspect of my personality is more pronounced than others—I certainly am not someone who demands meat at every meal. But it was especially evident yesterday, when Jason, my friend Barri, and I traveled to North Jersey to attend my aunt and uncle’s annual Ribfest, which also features a pie competition!
Three years ago is the last time I went—and if I’m correct, maybe the last time it occurred. That year, I only made a pie, to enter in the friendly competition. Sadly, only three people made and brought ribs, so the contest for the meat wasn’t all that exciting.
This year, though, the rules were clear: bring something to eat or you can’t come. The wording was strong, and I suspect many of us feared we’d actually be turned away at the door if we didn’t come bearing pork. As a result, despite the pouring rain, there were more than 20 entries in the rib competition. That’s a whole lot of ribs.
I’d always been intimidated at the thought of making ribs—not only am I limited to oven cooking, I for some reason had it in my head that they were a tricky beast. I was wrong. They are super easy—put spices on, stick ’em in the oven, and you’re basically done. My recipe involved a spice rub and a sauce, and both were damn tasty.
Only problem once we got to the competition, though, was that I forgot to put my extra sauce on, and the ribs weren’t especially warm. The winners were all heavily sauced, and some were even served in a slow cooker. (I’m making notes for next year.)
The pie competition this year was also fierce; 19 pies vied for the title. Mine should have won on looks alone.
But my peaches were too tart, and a sentimental favorite stole the win. (But my cream cheese crust was flaky and perfect—try it with your favorite filling!) Next year, I’m making classic apple and not fussing around with fancy flavors or elaborate spices. Give the people what they want, that’s my new mantra!
I’m definitely already thinking about next year . . .
16 Responses to meat (and pie) fest!
That is a beautiful pie.
I often long for family gatherings like that. Sounds like fun.
Oh there is no doubt in my mind that you will be bringing it for sure next year!!
Lovely pie!
I always thought ribs were too hard to make!
I’m going to try that pie crust for sure! Friends of mine were talking about vodka as an ingredient for pie crust, which I had never considered. Going to have to get the recipe from them!
I think when faced with dozens of choices, people tend to go for the classic favorites – “this is what ribs/pie should taste like” type of thing. While the unusual might be delicious when served alone, I can see why it wouldn’t win at this type of event. Regardless, everything looks so amazing! YUM!
Between your uncle’s smile and that tshirt, there is no way that this party couldn’t have been a total success despite the rain!
It all looks so delicious. Personally, I like my pie a little tart.
I’m unlucky to stumble across this post when I am hungry! All of this looks so delicious. Your pie definitely should have won on looks alone. Come on, it has stars! The competition had better watch out for next year.
those ribs look amazing!! I love ribs. I’m so impressed that you entered a pie contest!! I’ve bookmarked your pie crust recipe, I’m going to have to try it out.
Your uncle has the exact same smile and stomach as mine! I have lovingly dubbed mine “Uncle Buddha”.
Well if you are giving the people what they want, I sure would like that pie ;-)
your family is AMAZING. Rib and Pie contests!?! OMG. I want in. haha!! Looks delish!
Mmm, ribs and pie ~ now that’s a great party contest!
Ribs are difficult. I’ve only made them twice, and I did so in the oven (which for most cookers is sacrilege!). Your pie looks awesome, though. I agree, on looks alone, you should have won.
That is an awful lot of delicious-looking pies. And cream-cheese crust? Yum!!
That has to be the most beautiful pie ever made. Ever.
Wow! What a great idea for a pie lid. I am definitely stealing that! But not for your pie contest don’t worry :)