The Christmas Boat Parade is Bermuda’s largest single spectator event of the year and it’s a wonderful way to entertain family and friends. This year’s parade will be held on Saturday, December 12. The Parade will begin promptly at 6:30pm from the Fairmont Hamilton Princess Hotel and travel clockwise around White’s Island, culminating with a spectacular fireworks display. Whether you are lucky enough to have a view from your porch or are happy to perch somewhere on the route, here are some picnic recipes perfect for entertaining family and friends that night.

Recipes for a Parade-side Picnic

Delicious Chili Recipe

Ingredients:

2 slices bacon, cut crosswise into 1/4-inch pieces

1 onion, coarsely chopped

3 cloves garlic, chopped (1 1/2 tablespoons)

2 tablespoons paprika

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 1/4 teaspoons salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

2 pounds ground beef chuck

3 cups water

2 tablespoons fine cornmeal, or masa harina

1 1/2 tablespoons cider, or other vinegar

Chopped jalapeno, chopped onion or scallion, grated cheddar cheese, lime wedges, and sour cream

Directions

In a Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium heat until just beginning to brown, about 4 minutes. Add onion and garlic, and cook for 30 seconds. Add paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne, salt, pepper, and ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, and breaking up the meat with the side of the spoon, until the beef is cooked through, about 10 minutes.

Stir in water, cornmeal, and vinegar, and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until liquid thickens, about 20 minutes. It may be necessary to add a little water to thin the chili. Serve hot, garnished with desired toppings.

Garlic Butter (to be served on hearty stick bread)

Ingredients:

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature

1/2 teaspoon minced fresh garlic

Directions:

In a small bowl, mix together butter and garlic until well combined. Garlic butter may be may be stored in an airtight container, refrigerated, up to 3 days.

Photos supplied by the Bermuda Christmas Boat Parade Committee