A taste of Austin

Just a little something to whet your appetite for the 2008 Annual Conference

By Jenn Speer, The University of Texas at Austin, 2008 Host Committee member

Austin, Texas: home to historic honky-tonk dives and trendy upscale dining spots. Stomping grounds for the likes of Willie Nelson, Sandra Bullock and Lance Armstrong. A city where the local grocery store doubles as a live music venue and barbecue is a food group. This laid-back town is sure to be an unforgotten backdrop for the NIRSA 2008 Annual Conference & Recreational Sports Exposition taking place April 2-5.

Ranked #2 on Money magazine’s list of the Ten Best Places to Live, Austin proves to be a city like no other. What makes Austin unique? The outlandish number of 5Ks and festivals on any given weekend; the fact that we celebrate Eeyore’s birthday; and the seemingly natural talent of our citizens to make even the simplest meal a reason to write home.

So bring an eye for historic sites, an ear for amazing local music, and a taste for some true Tex-Mex cooking. You’ll be dreaming of queso long after the conference has ended.

Tempt your taste buds with this recipe from Austin’s Taco Xpress:

Miga Tacos
1 small handful tortilla chips, lightly crushed
1 tablespoon jalapenos, chopped
1/8 cup tomatoes, diced
1/8 cup onion, diced
1/2 cup Mexican-blend cheese, grated
1 egg
1 soft flour tortilla
Salsa (optional)

Put the soft tortilla in a skillet over low to medium heat to warm. Mix the chips, jalapenos, tomatoes, and onions in a separate skillet. Saute over medium heat until the onions are mostly translucent (don't let the chips burn). On the other side of the skillet, add the cheese and heat until melted, while cooking the rest of the dish. Add the egg to the vegetables, scrambling together until the egg is cooked. Scoop up the egg mixture and place on top of the cheese. Then place the entire mixture on the warmed soft tortilla. Top with salsa, if desired.

NIRSA Know is a service of the National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association
NIRSA National Center: 4185 SW Research Way, Corvallis, Oregon 97333-1067
tel: 541-766-8211 • fax: 541-766-8284 • email: nirsa@nirsa.org