It’s time to announce the first place and runner-up recipes in my 4th Annual Chili Contest! The 1st place winner will receive a $100 Visa gift card and the runner-up, a $50 Visa gift card.
But first, a round-up of ALL of this year’s delicious chili entries!
#1 – Quinoa and Black Bean Chili submitted by Alma Bye. Vegan and gluten-free, this chili is packed with fiber and vegetarian protein from quinoa. The flavors are traditional and the colors are absolutely stunning. I really enjoyed this chili.
#2 –Spicy Sausage Chili submitted by Ashley K. HOT HOT HOT! Poblanos, jalapenos, and 2 teaspoons of cayenne…oh yes, this was spicy! I loved the sausage flavor and the deep, rich chili flavors. I would simply reduce the spice just a bit 🙂 Delicious, though!
#3 – Pinto Bean Mole Chili submitted by Rachael of An Avocado A Day. The ingredient list on this recipe immediately piqued my interest. Unfortunately, the orange rind flavor was somewhat over-powering and/or did not agree with the iron-rich kale. Had I to make this again, I would remove that ingredient (as indicated in the recipe link). But the kale, beans, and zucchini were such a delicious combination!
#4 – Laura’s Chili submitted by Laura F. Traditional and simple to make, this chili got better with time as simmered on the stove top all day. I think what I missed in this chili was the veggies – onion, bell pepper, etc. For someone who prefers just the meat and beans – this one is for you!
#5 – Jalapeno Popper Chicken Chili submitted by Heather of Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks. I saw this submission come in and thought, “Mr. Prevention is going to LOVE this!” And, he did. Me too. It’s amazing what cream cheese can do…and the recipe didn’t even need the bacon. Yet, a serving (1 1/4 cups) still came in under 300 calories. It was delicious!
#6 – 3 Bean Sweet Potato Chili submitted by Melissa K. of My Whole Food Life. This vegan chili (also gluten-free) is incredibly healthy. Packed with fiber and sodium-controlled it doesn’t get much healthier than this! For some added flavor, I would up the chili powder and add some crushed red pepper.
#7 – Pumpkin Chili submitted by Kate M. More so than a pumpkin flavor, the pumpkin puree makes this chili almost creamy and rich. The flavors are traditional, as are the ingredients…except for the addition of pumpkin pie spice, which I thoroughly enjoyed!
#8 – Crock Pot Turkey Chili submitted by Rebecca from The Bakers. It is Simple. Easy. Delicious. When I think of my mom’s chili, this comes close. For me, it needed some more heat!
#9 – Harvest Festival Chili submitted by Athena. I really enjoyed this chili. It had authentic flavors with 2 great additions: butternut squash and corn. It’s traditional with meat and beans, but has a healthy twist.
#10 – Vegetarian Black Bean Chili submitted by Judy P-H. I loved the texture (bean lovers, this one is for you!) but it reminded me more of a pot of beans and less of a chili. The nutrition stats are very impressive and the flavor was definitely there. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free!
It wasn’t easy picking a winner, or a runner up – this year was full of delicious chili. Thank you to all of those who entered!
The 1st place recipe in this year’s chili contest goes to….Heather and her Jalapeno Popper Chicken Chili! The runner up recipe winner and recipe goes to Kate and her Pumpkin Chili! I will be emailing you both for your mailing addresses!
ENJOY…and happy (almost!) weekend!
Be well,
I’m So excited you loved my Jalapeno Popper Chicken Chili! YAY! Thank you so much!
I made this recipe but made it vegetarian, and we loved it here!!!!
Wow! Some awesome recipes! Great jon
Congrats to the winner!! So exciting!! I need to make that jalapeno popper chili – soon!