Another year in the books. And no, I’m not sick of chili. Never! Chili is the perfect food – balanced, spicy, hot, and generally high in fiber. It’s also incredibly versatile – over pasta, atop a baked potato, served in a bowl topped with cheese and all the other fixins’.
Before the winner is announced, let’s recap…
Week 1 was Jaime’s Texas Crock Pot Chili. My in-laws were town to enjoy this hearty recipe and everyone loved it. We all found it flavorful, meaty, and just spicy enough to be accepted by even the heat intolerant.
Meaghan submitted week 2’s Chipotle Quinoa Chili. It’s SOOO healthy and so very chili with the chili powder and cumin. Quinoa in chili is delicious! This recipe made my RD heart pitter patter – taste and health!
Mrs. Kringle submitted this recipe for Hearty Chili. It was so unique! Roasted red pepper soup and cocoa powder? It was subtly sweet with deep flavors, meat, beans, and all things chili. I thoroughly enjoyed this recipe!
Kate gave us a seriously unique recipe on week 4: Chili Braised Beef with Cornbread Dumplings. The ultimate comfort food, the braised meat topped with cilantro dumplings were rustic, flavorful, and unlike anything I’ve ever had before. So good (but not-so-good looking)!
Week 5 was another vegetarian delight, submitted by Lynn J – Three Bean Vegetarian Chili. Another very healthy recipe that uses bulgar to make a very thick, beany chili with great flavor!
Sarah sent me Coffee Chili for the 6th and final recipe. Coffee! Chili! So exciting! Never thought I’d eat corn and coffee together (or beans, for that matter), but it totally works. The refried beans make a thick, silky texture and it is big on flavor!
Honestly, this may be the toughest year yet to decide on a winner. Each of these recipes was delicious – some traditional, some unique…some super healthy, some healthy enough 😉 That said, the Chili Braised Beef with Cornbread Dumplings was SO unique and delicious, I can’t deny it 1st place and my 8th Annual Chili Contest WINNER! Congratulations, Kate! I’ll be in touch so I can get you your $200 prize!!
Thank you to all of this year’s chili contest participants. I look forward to next year!
Be well,
Of all the chili recipes entered this year, the winner is the one I saved to Pinterest.
Author
Haha! That’s so great, Helen! Let me know what you think 😉