THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2024
It is fitting that we celebrate National Chili Day every year on the fourth Thursday of February since there’s nothing better than enjoying fiery fare during one of winter’s coldest months.
CHILI HISTORY
The origins of chili are as murky as the red-hot, meaty stew itself. Learn how a President helped promote interest in Chili and how “the only real ‘bowl of red’ is that prepared by Texans.” MORE…
RECIPES & INGREDIENTS
Whether we’re talking about the chili that includes meat, the vegetarian version, or the many other variations of this deliciously comforting food, chili holds a prominent spot in our culinary hearts and repertoires. MORE…
Feb 26 World Pistachio Day Mar 7 National Cereal Day Oct 4 National Taco Day Nov 6 National Nachos Day
CHILI COOK OFFs
As enthusiasm for chili grew so did the competition. Chili cook-offs started cropping up locally and nationally. It’s believed the first one took place in Texas in the early 1950s, although some accounts say it was in Terlinga, Texas in 1967.
The International Chili Society was spawned about 48 years ago to motivate competition. Today, the society, which has 2,000 active members, puts on 150 to 200 cook-offs each year mainly in the U.S. but occasionally in Canada and Europe. Chili cooks can win as much as $25,000 for their best rendition of red chili. Check out their site at ChiliCookOff.com for more info.
Chili Cook Offs
CELEBRATING CHILI DAY & TRIVIA
The first documented recipe for chili con carne is dated September 2, 1519, according to Wikipedia. Hot chili peppers burn calories by triggering a thermodynamic burn in the body, which speeds up the metabolism.
Chili History Chili Cook Offs Recipes & Ingredients Celebrating Chili Day & Trivia