The fans of the Chicago Bears are most likely pulling out their favorite Chicago-style deep dish pizza recipes and loaded hot dogs. Fans of the Indianapolis Colts are busy dusting off their favorite tailgating recipes that travel with them to the annual Indianpolis 500 race, such as wings, dips and ribs. As for me, I will toss in a dish or two that make me think of sunny Florida.
The Menu
This is the one party in the year when you should definitely not plan a sit-down meal. This is a casual event where a lot of the activity will be focused around the television. Whether they're watching the game, laughing at the commercials, waiting for a replay, or listening to a commentator, your guests will want finger food that can be eaten away from the table.
Cocktails for Indianapolis Colts fans or cocktails for Chicago Bears fans. Cocktails Guide Colleen Graham has concoctions for both camps. Pick one for each team and everyone will be happy.
Caribbean Island Lime Shrimp- These tasty, citrus flavored shrimps will make a terrific, finger food appetizer for your Super Bowl Party, conjuring up some of the sunny flavors of South Florida.
Spinach Dip with Dippers - Whether you serve it in a bread bowl or in a bowl decorated in your favorite team colors, even those who don't eat their veggies will eat this dip.
Chicago Style Italian Sausage and Pepper Deep Dish Pizza - More than anything else, when I think about Chicago food, deep dish pizza is the one that gets my appetite going. Cut the pizzas into small pieces so that they're easy to carry. Think about the size of two or three bites.
Chicago Hot Dogs - This is the other dish that makes Chicago famous. Piled high with spicy, savory goodies, this is not a dish for the timid.
Wings - Chicken wings are a perennial favorite at both tailgating parties and Super Bowl bashes.
Slow Cooker Baby Back Ribs - While the folks down in Florida will be watching the game in short sleeves, the rest of us will be bundled up in sweaters. Which is why cooking ribs for the game in a slow cooker is so much better than freezing outside by your grill.
Ground Beef Nachos - Beef is big in Indianpolis so you can work it into your menu by piling it up on those nachos.
Eli's Chicago Style Cheesecake - Chicago Cheesecake was made famous by Eli's Cheesecake in Chicago. It's a baked cake with a cookie crust. Either order one directly from them or make your own similar cheesecake, and slice into small pieces. One of the great things about cheesecake is that it's better if made several days prior to your party.
Football Field Cake - Don't you love a dessert that does double-duty as a table decoration?
Beer, soft drinks, and lots of coffee before your guests leave for home.
