New York Jet Calvin Pace Tackles Your Super Bowl Party Questions
Jan. 21 2010, Published 4:43 a.m. ET
Before Calvin Pace and his New York Jets venture into Indianapolis in hopes of knocking off the Colts in the AFC championship game, the linebacker wants to help you tackle an annual challenge: the perfect Super bowl party. And it doesn't involve inviting this guy over to your house.
Tip #1: Grill outdoors if possible, using charcoal, never gas, as it'll make your party feel more like an at-home tailgate.
Tip #2: Make sure the beer is ice cold, and try to have a variety of beer types for all of your guests. Mix beers of varying cultures (American, Mexican, German, etc.) and strengths (light, dark). Throw in a few hard ciders and lemonades, and your guests will be as blitzed as opposing quarterbacks when Jets linebackers are headed coming their way.
Tip #3: Create your own signature BBQ sauce. Experiment with different ingredients such as ginger, pineapple, cinnamon, peppers and the like, until you have something that you know friends will keep talking about. It'll add something personal to fish, chicken, ribs, etc.
Tip #4: Spice things up with different ethnic foods, or at least sauces to separate yours from the normal Super bowl party fare. Sushi is really popular these days, maybe have a few types of rolls on hand. Also consider hummus in addition to your regular dips and salsa. Instead of regular chicken fingers, maybe do a chicken Satay instead. If you don't want to go that far do sauces with various ethnic inspirations for your wings. You can offer Caribbean jerk, Italian Parmesan & basil encrusted, Asian Teriyaki or sweet & sour, or any other variations.
Tip #5: Remember that not everyone eats red meat, or meat period, so be sure have on hand a variety of vegetarian fare, grilled or sautéed suggested. And make sure you isolate the fish, chicken and other meats from each other and from the veggies, for health purposes.
Super Bowl 44 arrives February 7.