Hey fellow foodies, recently, my neighborhood buzzed with excitement as amateur chefs showcased their chili recipes in our first Chili Cook-Off. The event was a flavor-filled extravaganza, with neighbors eagerly tasting and casting votes for the standout chili.
There were four categories:
Most Unique Most Flavorful
Hot & Spicy Crowd Favorite
Don’t have time to read it now? Pin it for later!
Hey fellow foodies, recently, my neighborhood buzzed with excitement as amateur chefs showcased their chili recipes in our first Chili Cook-Off. The event was a flavor-filled extravaganza, with neighbors eagerly tasting and casting votes for the standout chili.
There were four categories:
Most Unique Most Flavorful
Hot & Spicy Crowd Favorite
Don’t have time to read it now? Pin it for later!
All the deets
One neighbor’s savvy culinary skills was genuinely unique. He crafted a chili masterpiece by starting with his signature chili base, ingeniously nestling it in the lower chamber of his Big Green Egg. The upper chamber held a colossal meatball fusion of ground beef, pork, and chorizo. While the meatball cooked, it released its succulent juices to the base below. The result – a delicious depth of flavor. The immense flavors from this bowl of goodness dazzled the crowd.
Another chili was equally impressive, featuring beef that had been expertly smoked for three days before being meticulously chopped and added to the chili base. The resulting flavor was nothing short of spectacular, a testament to the chef’s dedication to perfection.
Another contender prepared a more traditional chili and a fiery concoction that packed a punch of spice – it was my personal favorite, made my tastebuds sing and left a lasting impression.
Fun Idea
All this got me thinking – a Chili Bar would be the ultimate theme for a happy hour. Imagine choosing your favorite chili recipe and adding a spread of delectable toppings, warm cornbread, and refreshing drinks. It’s a recipe for an unforgettable evening of culinary indulgence.
The Cocktail
For cocktail enthusiasts, I recommend trying The Paloma from Amy at Chew Out Loud. The tangy grapefruit juice pairs exquisitely with the bold flavors of the chili. Plus, it’s got that YUM factor.
The Mocktail
Ramona’s Spicy Paloma Mocktail is a specialty that promises a spicy kick without the alcohol. On those happy hour nights I don’t drink, I enjoy something with flavor – let’s face it, sparkling water with lime doesn’t always cut it.
The nosh
To complement the chili, Ina Garten’s Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread is a must. Its cheesy, jalapeño-studded goodness is the perfect accompaniment, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture to the experience.
The Toppings
Now, let’s talk toppings. Sliced jalapeños, a medley of grated cheeses (cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby), dollops of sour cream, wedges of lime, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or Italian Flat Leaf Parsley (my preference), a generous spoonful of salsa, creamy guacamole, and for the ultimate indulgence, bacon or chorizo crumbles – the possibilities are endless. Each adds its own unique twist to the chili.
the sweet
And after all that spice, it’s time to turn to something sweet. My new friend Laura from Mountainside Bakery recommends her White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies. They’re a delightful nod to my days working in downtown Washington, DC, just a block from a Mrs. Field’s store. It was our go-to spot for a sweet pick-me-up around 3pm, and Laura’s cookies evoke those cherished memories.
I hope you consider embracing the Chili Bar concept, whether you’re hosting a neighborhood gathering or simply looking to spice up your next happy hour. With an array of chili recipes, tempting toppings, and delectable accompaniments, you will indeed create an evening that will be remembered long after the last bowl is emptied. And you don’t have to use beef. I’ve tasted some really delish white chicken chili in my days. And don’t forget that leftover turkey next Thanksgiving.
Hey fellow foodies, recently, my neighborhood buzzed with excitement as amateur chefs showcased their chili recipes in our first Chili Cook-Off. The event was a flavor-filled extravaganza, with neighbors eagerly tasting and casting votes for the standout chili.
There were four categories:
Most Unique Most Flavorful
Hot & Spicy Crowd Favorite
Don’t have time to read it now? Pin it for later!
All the deets
One neighbor’s savvy culinary skills was genuinely unique. He crafted a chili masterpiece by starting with his signature chili base, ingeniously nestling it in the lower chamber of his Big Green Egg. The upper chamber held a colossal meatball fusion of ground beef, pork, and chorizo. While the meatball cooked, it released its succulent juices to the base below. The result – a delicious depth of flavor. The immense flavors from this bowl of goodness dazzled the crowd.
Another chili was equally impressive, featuring beef that had been expertly smoked for three days before being meticulously chopped and added to the chili base. The resulting flavor was nothing short of spectacular, a testament to the chef’s dedication to perfection.
Another contender prepared a more traditional chili and a fiery concoction that packed a punch of spice – it was my personal favorite, made my tastebuds sing and left a lasting impression.
Fun Idea
All this got me thinking – a Chili Bar would be the ultimate theme for a happy hour. Imagine choosing your favorite chili recipe and adding a spread of delectable toppings, warm cornbread, and refreshing drinks. It’s a recipe for an unforgettable evening of culinary indulgence.
The Cocktail
For cocktail enthusiasts, I recommend trying The Paloma from Amy at Chew Out Loud. The tangy grapefruit juice pairs exquisitely with the bold flavors of the chili. Plus, it’s got that YUM factor.
The Mocktail
Ramona’s Spicy Paloma Mocktail is a specialty that promises a spicy kick without the alcohol. On those happy hour nights I don’t drink, I enjoy something with flavor – let’s face it, sparkling water with lime doesn’t always cut it.
The nosh
To complement the chili, Ina Garten’s Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread is a must. Its cheesy, jalapeño-studded goodness is the perfect accompaniment, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture to the experience.
The Toppings
Now, let’s talk toppings. Sliced jalapeños, a medley of grated cheeses (cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby), dollops of sour cream, wedges of lime, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or Italian Flat Leaf Parsley (my preference), a generous spoonful of salsa, creamy guacamole, and for the ultimate indulgence, bacon or chorizo crumbles – the possibilities are endless. Each adds its own unique twist to the chili.
the sweet
And after all that spice, it’s time to turn to something sweet. My new friend Laura from Mountainside Bakery recommends her White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies. They’re a delightful nod to my days working in downtown Washington, DC, just a block from a Mrs. Field’s store. It was our go-to spot for a sweet pick-me-up around 3pm, and Laura’s cookies evoke those cherished memories.
I hope you consider embracing the Chili Bar concept, whether you’re hosting a neighborhood gathering or simply looking to spice up your next happy hour. With an array of chili recipes, tempting toppings, and delectable accompaniments, you will indeed create an evening that will be remembered long after the last bowl is emptied. And you don’t have to use beef. I’ve tasted some really delish white chicken chili in my days. And don’t forget that leftover turkey next Thanksgiving.
All the deets
One neighbor’s savvy culinary skills was genuinely unique. He crafted a chili masterpiece by starting with his signature chili base, ingeniously nestling it in the lower chamber of his Big Green Egg. The upper chamber held a colossal meatball fusion of ground beef, pork, and chorizo. While the meatball cooked, it released its succulent juices to the base below. The result – a delicious depth of flavor. The immense flavors from this bowl of goodness dazzled the crowd.
Another chili was equally impressive, featuring beef that had been expertly smoked for three days before being meticulously chopped and added to the chili base. The resulting flavor was nothing short of spectacular, a testament to the chef’s dedication to perfection.
Another contender prepared a more traditional chili and a fiery concoction that packed a punch of spice – it was my personal favorite, made my tastebuds sing and left a lasting impression.
Fun Idea
All this got me thinking – a Chili Bar would be the ultimate theme for a happy hour. Imagine choosing your favorite chili recipe and adding a spread of delectable toppings, warm cornbread, and refreshing drinks. It’s a recipe for an unforgettable evening of culinary indulgence.
The Cocktail
For cocktail enthusiasts, I recommend trying The Paloma from Amy at Chew Out Loud. The tangy grapefruit juice pairs exquisitely with the bold flavors of the chili. Plus, it’s got that YUM factor.
The Mocktail
Ramona’s Spicy Paloma Mocktail is a specialty that promises a spicy kick without the alcohol. On those happy hour nights I don’t drink, I enjoy something with flavor – let’s face it, sparkling water with lime doesn’t always cut it.
The nosh
To complement the chili, Ina Garten’s Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread is a must. Its cheesy, jalapeño-studded goodness is the perfect accompaniment, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture to the experience.
The Toppings
Now, let’s talk toppings. Sliced jalapeños, a medley of grated cheeses (cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby), dollops of sour cream, wedges of lime, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or Italian Flat Leaf Parsley (my preference), a generous spoonful of salsa, creamy guacamole, and for the ultimate indulgence, bacon or chorizo crumbles – the possibilities are endless. Each adds its own unique twist to the chili.
the sweet
And after all that spice, it’s time to turn to something sweet. My new friend Laura from Mountainside Bakery recommends her White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Cookies. They’re a delightful nod to my days working in downtown Washington, DC, just a block from a Mrs. Field’s store. It was our go-to spot for a sweet pick-me-up around 3pm, and Laura’s cookies evoke those cherished memories.
I hope you consider embracing the Chili Bar concept, whether you’re hosting a neighborhood gathering or simply looking to spice up your next happy hour. With an array of chili recipes, tempting toppings, and delectable accompaniments, you will indeed create an evening that will be remembered long after the last bowl is emptied. And you don’t have to use beef. I’ve tasted some really delish white chicken chili in my days. And don’t forget that leftover turkey next Thanksgiving.
