National Chili Day

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February 27th is National Chili Day in the United States.

Chili, or chilli, normally refers to the dish known as chili con carne, which means 'chili with meat.' It's a spicy stew that originated in southern Texas and is made from meat, with beef being the most common, and chili peppers, or chili powder, at its most basic. Beans, especially red kidney beans, and tomatoes are commonly added, and there are variants that skip the meat and add something else. These could be vegetarian chilis (which are not chili con carne, as they lack the 'carne') made from several different beans, or a meat substitute could be used instead. Purists insist that only the basic, meat and chili, dish can truly be called chili con carne.

Chilis can be served in a number of ways. Rice is a common accompaniment to dishes of chili, and they can also be served with tortilla chips. Toppings can include grated cheese and jalapeño peppers. Though many Texan families had their own, often closely guarded, recipes for chili, these days premade versions of the dish can be bought.

National Chili Month

October is National Chili Month in the United States.

Chili, or chilli, is commonly used as a short name for the dish chili con carne, which means chili with meat.

Chilli is a spicy stew made from meat - typically, but not always, beef, and there are vegetarian options, such as five bean chilli and those made with vegetarian protein options - chilli peppers and tomatoes. Chicken and pork are also used.

The precise recipe for chilli does depend on the area, and does vary. Beans are a common ingredient, even in non-vegetarian recipes, with red kidney beans being popular. Other ingredients include spices, such as cumin, and garlic and onion, but others can be used, and there are many personal recipes for the dish.

As well as being made from scratch, chilli can also be purchased pre-made, and tinned. It can also be used in other dishes, such as in chilli burgers and chilli dogs.

Chilli can be as hot as you want it to be, from essentially unspiced to dangerous to eat. It is commonly served with nachos and rice, and cheese is a popular topping.