On February 27 we celebrate National Chilli Day a day to enjoy the Chili’s flavour with a rich blend of spices, heat, and savoury ingredients. However, some common notes include smoky, spicy (from chilli peppers), hearty (from beans or meat), and umami (from tomatoes and seasonings). Toppings like cheese, sour cream, and fresh herbs add creaminess and freshness to the dish.
Did you know that the chilli is the ultimate people-pleaser, but it’s also the ultimate cook-off dish? Family recipes are guarded like crown jewels, and secret ingredients are never spoken of above a whisper. And the debates about what makes true chili beans or no beans? Somehow when chili is being served perhaps with some chopped onions and shredded cheese on top everyone comes to the table.
History of National Chili Day
However, many people believe chilli originated purely in Mexico, modern thinking suggests that it was probably truly created in Texas and is a blend of Native American, Spanish, and Mexican cuisines. Also, this claim is supported by the fact that the first-ever written reference to chili occurred in the city of San Antonio, Texas in 1828. This is just one of the many delicious varieties of food that fall into the category of Tex-Mex.
However, one legend dates chilli back a little further, stating that some immigrants who came from the Canary Islands brought the recipe with them to San Antonio when they settled there in the 1700s. This was before the name “chilli” came to be and it was simply referred to as “Spanish stew”.
Eventually, by the 1880s, a popular way to eat the dish in San Antonio was by picking up a “bowl o’ red” at a chilli stand in an open-air stall, usually run by a “chili queen”. The popularity of chilli began to spread throughout the US, and it was given a huge boost when it was featured at the 1893 World’s Fair which took place in Chicago, Illinois.
The dish that is now known as simply “chilli” has, in the past, often been referred to as “chilli con carne”, which just means chilli with meat. Of course, today, many people make it without meat, and it can easily even be made into a vegan dish with no animal products of any kind.
Some people do tend to spell it differently, depending on where they are from. Most Americans will include only one “l” in the word, while some British folks and people from other parts of the world may add an additional letter to spell it “chilli”. But no matter how it is spelled, this is certainly a tasty dish that is worthy of celebration!
| 1700s (Old Legend) | It is believed that immigrants from the Canary Islands introduced chili after settling in San Antonio. |
| 1828 (First written description of Chili) | J. C. Clopper writes, after visiting San Antonio, Texas, about “a kind of hash with nearly as many peppers as there are pieces of meat – this is all stewed together.” |
| 1880s(Chili stands become popular in San Antonio) | Women who are called “Chili Queens” set up trailers or carts to serve spicy bowls of beans and meat (chili con carne) to workers and passersby on the street, where small tables, seats and lanterns were set up. These last until the 1930s when the health department shuts them down. |
| 1896(Chili powder is invented in Texas) | German immigrant William Gebhardt creates a way to pulverize dried chiles using a meat grinder, which eventually becomes the product known as Gebhardt’s Eagle Chili Powder. It’s a critical ingredient in Chili. |
| 1960s (An American president loves chili) | Lyndon Johnson, president of the United States from 1963-1969, declares that Texas Chili is the best: “One of the first things I do when I get home to Texas is to have a bowl of red. There is simply nothing better.” |
| 1977(Chili becomes the state dish of Texas) | As the continuation of its association with Texas, the state’s legislature names Chili the state dish. |
Classic Chili Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or turkey/vegetarian substitute)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Olive oil (for cooking)
How to make:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes (with juices), kidney beans, black beans, and broth. Mix well.
- Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more spices or salt according to your preference.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot. Top with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or cilantro.
Source; Giant Eagle
Fun Facts About Chili
- Lyndon B. Johnson, United States President from 1963-1969, was a huge lover of chili and named his favorite recipe after his ranch in Texas, Pedernales River Chili. Americans were so fond of it that his wife, Lady Bird Johnson, had the recipe printed up on cards and mailed out from the White House.
- In 1977, lobbyists worked to convince the state legislature to call chilli the official state food of Texas.
- In the late 1890s, it was possible to buy a bowl of chili off of the back of a wagon for a mere 5 cents. This even came with an unlimited number of crackers to go along with it–and usually a glass of water too.
- The first chili cook-off is recorded to have taken place in 1952 at the State Fair of Texas located in Dallas. But another story says that the first one took place in 1967 in Terlingua, Texas, where no winner was declared–as it was a tie between a native Texan and a person from New York!
Activities for National Chilli Day
Here are some of the activities that you can do on National Chili day,
1. Chili Cook-Off
- On this day you can organize a friendly competition among friends or family. Each participant can bring their chilli recipe, and everyone votes for their favourite.
2. Chili Recipe Swap
- Also you can, host a gathering where guests bring their favourite chilli recipes to share. This can be a great way to discover new flavours and ideas.
3. Chili Tasting Party
- Prepare several different types of chilli (vegetarian, spicy, classic, etc.) and have a tasting session. Pair with various toppings for added fun.
4. Chili-Themed Game Night
- Incorporate chilli into a game night with trivia about chilli history or ingredients. You could even play chili-themed bingo!
5. Cooking Class
- Attend or host a cooking class focused on making chilli. This could be an in-person event or a virtual class.
6. Chili and Movie Night
- Pair a cozy night with a big pot of chilli and a selection of your favourite movies. Perfect for a chilly February evening!
7. Chili Photo Contest
- Encourage friends or social media followers to post pictures of their chili creations. Use a specific hashtag for fun and engagement.
8. Charity Chili Event
- Organize a chili fundraiser where participants pay to enter their chili and guests pay for tastings, with proceeds going to a local charity.
9. Chili Art
- Get creative by making chili-themed art, such as painting or crafting, and display your creations as part of your celebration.
10. Explore Local Chili Restaurants
- Visit local eateries known for their chili offerings and try different styles from your community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, chilli is a day to enjoy a versatile dish that showcases a delightful harmony of flavours. However, the base usually features a robust combination of spices—cumin, paprika, and chilli powder that provides warmth and depth. Also, the heat level can vary significantly, depending on the types and amounts of chilli peppers used, making it customizable to personal preferences.
However, some of the addition of ingredients like beans, tomatoes, and various meats enhances its heartiness and texture, while toppings such as cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro introduce creaminess and brightness. Whether you prefer a classic beef chilli, a vegetarian version, or a unique twist, there’s a chilli out there for everyone.
Also, National Chili Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate this beloved dish, experiment with new recipes, and enjoy the communal experience of sharing a bowl with friends and family.
FAQs
What are the main ingredients in chilli?
Common ingredients include ground meat (beef, turkey, or vegetarian options), beans, tomatoes, and a variety of spices.
Is chili spicy?
The spice level can vary widely. You can adjust the heat by using different types and amounts of chilli peppers.
Can I make chilli vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute meat with beans, lentils, or textured vegetable protein, and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian or vegan chili.
What are some popular chilli toppings?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro.
Also, read more about National Sticky Bun Day – February 21, 2025
