Spice it up: We're celebrating National Chili Month in the heart of Texas

By MICKY SHEARON Special to the Hood County News

When October rolls around, Texans don't just notice the cooler temperatures – they can almost smell the chili simmering across the state. Because October is National Chili Month, a time to celebrate one of the heartiest, spiciest, and heartiest dishes in American cuisine. And in Texas, chili isn't just food; It's a way of life.

From its roots in cowboy camps and frontier kitchens to its reign as a staple at cook-offs and tailgates, chili holds a special place in the heart (and stomach) of every Texan. Whether you're a Bowl of Red connoisseur or just looking for an excuse to celebrate this hearty dish, National Chili Month is the perfect time to honor chili and its cultural significance throughout the Lone Star State .

The Origins of National Chili Month

Although Texas has long had a love affair with chili, the creation of National Chili Month was not an idea born in Texas. It emerged as part of a broader appreciation of American food culture and highlighted regional specialties such as chili, barbecue and cake. The idea behind National Chili Month is simple: Encourage people to cook, enjoy and celebrate chili in all its forms. The month of October was chosen to coincide with the cooler fall temperatures, which seem to make this flavorful, hearty dish even more satisfying.

Naturally, Texans fully embraced the idea, and National Chili Month quickly became a time when people across the state turned on their stoves, dusted off their cast-iron pots, and perfected their chili recipes. Whether you like it burning spicy or with mild heat; There's no wrong way to enjoy a bowl of chili—unless you add beans. (More on that in a moment.)

The Importance of Chili to Texans

In Texas, chili is more than just food – it's a cultural icon. While many associate Texas cuisine with barbecue, chili simmers quietly in the background as the unofficial state dish. In fact, it became the official state dish of Texas in 1977, further cementing its status as a staple of Texas culture.

Chili first became popular during the cattle drives of the 19th century. Cowboys combined beef, dried chiles, and spices to create a stew that was easy to prepare over a campfire. This “cowboy chili” evolved over time, influenced by Mexican cuisine, Native American traditions, and the ingenuity of Texas settlers.

Today, chili can be found at tailgates, at football games, and at local cooking competitions where passionate chefs vie for bragging rights and chili supremacy. And the debates rage: beans or no beans? Hot or mild? Texans are famously loyal to their chili recipes, and each family passes down a version that reflects their own culinary heritage.

The different types of chili peppers found in Texas

Ask ten Texans how they like their chili and you'll probably get ten different answers. While the classic “Bowl of Red” reigns supreme in many circles – simple, meaty and made without beans – there are a variety of styles that reflect the state's diversity.

Traditional Texas Chili (Chili con Carne): The purest form of chili, made from beef chunks, chili peppers and spices. True to its cowboy roots, this chili is all about meat and heat, with no beans or tomatoes. Texans are proud of this style because it stays true to the original chili enjoyed in the open field.

Bean Chili: While purists may scoff, many Texas chili lovers add beans to their recipes to add extra texture and heartiness. Kidney beans, pinto beans, or black beans are often added to the mix.

Vegetarian chili: A surprising number of Texans prefer meatless chili versions. Made from beans, vegetables, and even plant-based meat alternatives, these chilis offer a lighter yet flavorful option for non-carnivores.

Green Chili (Chili Verde): This variation is made with pork (instead of beef) and tomatoes, which give the dish a spicy, green color. It's a popular choice in the southwest part of the state and among adventurous eaters looking for variety.

Frito Pie: While this popular Texas dish isn't exactly a bowl of chili, it does involve pouring chili over a bed of Fritos, adding cheese, and devouring the crispy, spicy deliciousness. This is often found at high school football games and at casual gatherings across the state.

Here's how to celebrate National Chili Month

If you're ready to embrace the magic of National Chili Month, there are plenty of fun (and delicious) ways to take part.

Host a Chili Cook-Off: Chili cook-offs are practically a sport in Texas, and there's no better way to celebrate National Chili Month than by organizing one in your neighborhood. Invite friends, neighbors and family to compete for the title of best chili. Make sure you have plenty of toppings like cheese, onions, and cornbread to accompany the various entries.

Try a New Recipe: Expand your chili horizons by experimenting with different styles and recipes. You can go traditional with Texas-style chili con carne, or try something adventurous like a smoky vegetarian chili or white chicken chili.

Chili tasting party: Don't feel like cooking? Organize a chili tasting where everyone brings a different type of chili and you can try out the variety of flavors of the chili world.

Attend a Chili Festival: October is peak season for chili festivals, and events are held throughout Texas that feature chili cook-offs, tastings, and live entertainment. It's a great way to learn about different styles of chili and meet other chili enthusiasts.

Make it a family tradition: October is the perfect time to pass down your family's chili recipe (or create a new one). Spend time in the kitchen with your loved ones, perfect your family's signature dish, and ensure that the next generation appreciates the art of chili-making.

Whether you're a die-hard chili fan or just looking for a new fall tradition, National Chili Month is the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a bowl of warm, flavorful goodness. Texas has its own unique take on chili—spicy, meaty, and as big as the state itself—and October is the perfect time to celebrate this iconic dish in all of its delicious forms.

[email protected]