(This contest was totally impossible to judge. We had so many amazing Braises that in addition to our top five places, we've had to create new categories - and prizes! - in order to honor the talent, wit and skill of these amazing Braisons and Braisettes. Each entry gets its own post, recipe included, in the next few weeks. Grand Prize winners announced tomorrow. More after the jump.)

Most Serious!

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Title: Rogan Josh (Kashmir Lamb Curry)
Chef: Raedia

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Best Photography

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Title: Braised Lamb with Celery
Chefs: Zach and Clay

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Best Fusion Braise

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Title: Braised Beef Brisket
Chef: Michelle

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Most Inviting Presentation (Al fresco Dining - Goodbye, winter!)

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Title: Gigot braisé a la Malarkey
Chef: Mike

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Best Outside-the-Box Braise

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Title: Vindaloo-ed Lamb Chops
Chef: Nisha

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Best Original Recipe

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Title: Beer Braised Beef with Kohlrabi and Leeks
Chefs: Rachel and Husband

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Best Side Dish Braise

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Title: Slow Braised Tomatoes
Chef: Teri