It would seem that the official start to football season is upon us yet again. (Go Ravens!) After such a long hot summer that seemed to drag on, it feels almost impossible that we are entering into the football days of fall already. It’s time to turn in our baseballs for pigskin; our bats for helmets; our home runs for touchdowns and our Orioles for our Ravens (that last one may just be here in MD…) And most importantly, for those who love to eat: our cracker jacks and beer for nachos and pretzels and dips galore, and (let’s be honest here) more beer.
What used to be a simple calendar flip from one month to the next has become more intricate in the last few years. Now, not only does autumn signify leaves changing color, and temperatures dropping, but it also means the start of fantasy drafts, football pools and the planning of football parties. The planning of game day bashes, in the eyes of someone who understands very little of a game, is the most important part. There must be oodles of food and plenty to drink. Who cares if your team loses (though I know this isn’t necessarily the case) if there’s something yummy to eat?
But of course, as in the game of football, there are rules to the game of football food as well.
1. To have a proper football party, there must be proper football food. While Bouef Bourginon that you’ve spent hours roasting and perfecting, is delicious; how in the world are you going to eat it crowded around the television? Handheld food is what you want. Dips and accessories for dipping are perfect. No need to take your eyes off the ball when it all comes down to a single play, which brings me to my next rule.
2. You should never serve something that will surely stain that bright white new carpet you’ve just recently installed. Yes, while pizza dip smothered in cheese and pepperoni sounds like the perfect snack to consume while your team is making their way to the playoffs, you may think differently when your QB throws an interception and the plates go flying.
3. Now I may not hold too much stock in this, but be sure to have the alcoholic beverages of your guests’ choice, as well as some non-alcoholic options for us tea-totalers. I've heard it’s not a football game if there isn’t at least beer there for consumption. Though, stay away from the darker brews. (See reason above.)
4. While probably not the usual requirement for most football parties, include a dessert for all your guests. If the game ends in a win, you’ll surely need something to celebrate with and since you’ve been consuming treats of another nature for the entirety of the game, a brownie or cookie (keep in line with the handheld rule) will surely hit the spot and soak up some of the booze. And most importantly, if your team loses, a sweet treat can be used to drown your sorrows and turn that frown upside down – Never underestimate the power of chocolate!
5. And last but not least, enjoy the game and don’t argue with your guests about players, plays and scores. It’s just a bit rude, and if you haven’t followed the no stain rules, it could get quite messy.
Happy Football Season!
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