Trevor Phipps
Even though there are no football games this weekend for the first time since last summer, everyone now has time to make plans for the Big Game (Super Bowl LX) on Feb. 8.
When it comes to the Super Bowl, some fans like rowdy crowds that abound at area sports’ bars, while others prefer to invite friends and family over for get-togethers.
Those who prefer to go out can enjoy the big game at local sports-watching hotspots, plenty of options are available at such special places as McGinty’s Wood Oven Pub in Divide, Jess’ Place in Woodland Park, the Blue Moose Tavern in Green Mountain Falls, or The Creek or District Saloon in Cripple Creek. For example, Jess’ Place this year is hosting Soup-er Bowl Soup contests where contestants can bring in their best soup recipe to be judged by patrons. McGinty’s is offering special drink and food specials.
For more details on Super Bowl outings in Teller County, make sure to check out the Feb. 3 issue of TMJ for our special Super Bowl edition.
But for those that prefer a nice house party, they will be forced to choose between purchasing game time snacks/meals or preparing them themselves. For those who aren’t really into cooking, Joanie’s Bakery and Deli offers catering services where football watchers can buy a nice spread of goodies made for them. It’s hard to beat their Game Day plate.
For those who like to cook though, the options are endless. Personally, I like to keep it to snack-type foods that can be eaten by hand.
One of my ultimate favorite game time meals is home-made potato skins. I start by taking either fresh or leftover baked potatoes, cut them in wedges and then scrape out the top part of the potato wedge to make the flat skins. Then I either broil or fry them to make them crispy before melting cheese, bacon, chives, and anything else desired on top. Add sour cream or ranch for a dipping sauce and you are good to go.
I also tend to enjoy making nachos to enjoy with the game. You can never go wrong with the Mexican treat, and you can make several variations by switching up types of chips and putting on any type of topping you want. When I used to work in restaurants, I made an awesome nacho plate with potato chips, beer cheese, green onions and bacon bits.
Chips and dip are another finger food that guests will love. You can scour the internet for dozens of delicious recipes for unique dips or just stick to the basics like queso or French onion. When I went to a Super Bowl party one time, a friend made a mouth-watering Philly cheesesteak dip (recipes can be found online) that didn’t make it to the end of the game.
Enjoy the big Game.
