It’s getting cold in the ATX! I know most of you have been cold for a month or two by now, but we’re finally getting it here in Texas. Good thing it will only last a few months! I always pull out my mom’s wassail (cider) recipe around this time of year, because it reminds me of winter.

Mom’s Wassail

• 2 -32oz bottles of Apple Juice or Cider
• 1 Can of Frozen Orange Juice
• 1/2 C Brown Sugar
• 1 T Allspice
• 1 T Nutmeg
• 1 T Cinnamon
• 2 Large Oranges, Sliced
• 10-20 Whole Cloves
• 6-8 Cinnamon Sticks

Combine everything in a large pot. Squeeze the juice out of the orange slices before throwing those in the pot. simmer for an hour, and strain. You can store this for up to a week in the fridge, but make sure to stir before re-heating, as all the spices will settle at the bottom. Enjoy, and stay warm, y’all!

This past Sunday I attended the Vegetarian Chili Cook off here in Austin. It was a total blast, and I had a hand full of friends who competed! The way it works is you pay $7 to get in, and you receive a bowl, a spoon, and a ticket to cast your vote. You go around to each booth and they ladle out about 2 oz of their special chili for you to try. With over 20 vendors, I only made it about half way before I had to go home and take a nap. haha.There were tons of crazy blends of chili. My friend Molly and her husband, Matt, competed with their spicy bulgar chili, which is amazing as always. They won 2nd place, and I couldn’t think of anyone who deserved it more! Congrats! My favorite vegan co-op, House of Commons, house was represented by some of the lovely ladies of the house, and Green Island Catering was there, as well!

There was chocolate chilis, spicy chilis, chili’s with vegan jerky in them, masala chili, coconut curry chili, and a bunch of other interesting and tasty spins on this Texas classic. Dog Almighty was there selling veggie dogs, and Celeste from Celeste’s Best was selling her cookie dough and cupcakes!  Ben from Organic Athlete was also there tabling about their Austin Chapter of the organization. Overall it was a great time, and a big thanks to the Vegetarian Network of Austin for setting this up!