On Monday, Martha Stewart hosted the ultimate chili cook-off at Macy’s in the Mall of Millennia. Four of Orlando’s local fire departments competed in a “Best Chili in Orlando” competition.

• Firehouse 11 – Beast of the East Chili
• Firehouse 12 – Tailgate Chili
• Firehouse 3 – Rodney’s Chili
• Firehouse 1 – Big House Chili

They were judged on taste, consistency, aroma, color and bite. Executive Director of Food and Entertaining at Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia Lucinda Scala Quinn joined Martha in the judging. They both shared many tips on entertaining, gardening and some of Martha’s favorite recipes. It was fantastic to see her in person and how much she participated in fielding questions from the audience. We were able to taste a sample of Martha’s Texas Chili and Skillet Cornbread. The chili was different than what I was used to. With trimmed beef chuck pieces instead of regular ground beef it was appealing.  The aromas pouring from the stage was making everyone hungry and the sample hit the spot.

The cookware the firemen used to make their chili is part of the Martha Stewart Collection Enameled Cast Iron line. The Cast Iron Cookware is so versatile and can be used for every cooking or baking need. It is heavy in construction so it distributes heat evenly and traps moisture. The handles are generously sized for safe, easy grip and the outside design goes from oven to table. With proper care it will last a lifetime.

It was really interesting to see how they went from table to table tasting the chili and having to make the hard decision of picking a winner. The winner of the “Best Chili in Orlando” went to Firehouse 11 Beast of the East Chili.

If you purchased $75 of any Martha Stewart Cookware you received an autographed recipe card and had a photo opportunity if you so desired.

Martha has a new cookbook, Martha’s American Food: A Celebration of Our Nation’s Most Treasured Dishes from Coast to Coast, which will be released in April.