National Chili Chili Day

Bowl of steaming chili, spicy red peppers, wooden spoon, cozy winter setting, chef's apron and oven mitts.. — National chili chili day illustration

Hey there, chili enthusiasts! Get ready to spice up your life on National Chili Chili Day, a sizzling celebration that will set your taste buds on fire. Whether you like it mild, hot, or melt-your-face-off insanely spicy, this is the perfect day to indulge in a steaming bowl of chili awesomeness. So grab your spoons and loosen up those belts, because it's about to get real chili up in here!

When is Chili Chili Day?

It's national chili chili day on the 23rd February.

The History of National Chili Chili Day

While the exact origins of National Chili Chili Day are as mysterious as the perfect blend of spices in a secret family recipe, we can tell you that chili has been warming hearts and filling bellies for centuries. Variations of this hearty dish can be traced back to ancient civilizations, such as the Aztecs and Incas, who mixed their meat with chili peppers to create a flavorful stew. Fast forward to the United States in the 19th century, where chili became a popular meal among cowboys and pioneers, thanks to its affordable ingredients and ease of cooking over an open fire.

Nowadays, chili has become a beloved American classic, with countless regional variations competing for the title of the best chili in town. From Texas-style chili con carne to Cincinnati's unique take on the dish with spaghetti, there's no shortage of chili to satisfy every palate. So, it's only fitting that National Chili Chili Day was born to pay tribute to this culinary masterpiece and honor its place in our hearts (and stomachs).

How to Celebrate National Chili Chili Day

Ready to get your chili on? Here are some hot tips to make the most out of National Chili Chili Day:

Organize a chili cook-off with your friends and family. Break out the pots, gather the finest ingredients, and let your taste buds decide who's the chili champion.
Visit a local chili hotspot or food truck to taste-test some award-winning chili. Let the experts take you on a flavor journey you won't soon forget.
Challenge yourself to make a homemade batch of chili. Experiment with different spices, meats, and even vegetarian options to create a chili masterpiece that reflects your unique taste.
If cooking isn't your thing, no worries! Grab a bowl of chili at your favorite chili joint and savor the flavors without any of the work.

Remember, whether you like beans or prefer them out of your chili, it's all about enjoying this fantastic dish with the people you love. Share a bowl with friends, family, or even your beloved four-legged chili connoisseur (just make sure it's pet-friendly, please!).

History behind the term 'Chili Chili'

1600s

The origins of chili peppers

Chili peppers have been cultivated for thousands of years in Central and South America. In the 1600s, they were brought to Europe by Spanish explorers. These fiery peppers quickly spread in popularity, finding their way to various cuisines around the world.

1600s

Early Origins

Chili peppers have been cultivated in the Americas for thousands of years, with evidence of their use dating back to ancient civilizations. However, the term 'chili chili' originated in the 1600s as a result of the Spanish colonization of the Americas. The Spanish explorers encountered these fiery peppers and named them 'chile' after the Nahuatl word 'chīlli'. It was during this time that 'chile' became synonymous with the hot peppers themselves.

1600

Origins of chili peppers

Chili peppers, the key ingredient in chili chili, have been cultivated in Central and South America for thousands of years. Indigenous people in these regions were the first to cultivate and consume chili peppers, as they found their heat and distinct flavor appealing. Chili peppers were even used for medicinal purposes due to their unique properties.

1529

Discovery of the Chili Pepper

The term 'chili chili' finds its roots in the discovery of the chili pepper by Europeans. In 1529, Spanish conquistadors, led by Hernán Cortés, explored Mexico and encountered the Aztecs who were using a variety of peppers in their cuisine. Among these, they found a vibrant red pepper called 'chili' which quickly captured their attention.

Unknown

The Origins of Chili

Chili is a spicy dish that has its roots in ancient civilizations. The exact origin of chili is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the region that is now known as Mexico. The Aztecs, Mayans, and Incas are known to have cultivated chili peppers and used them in their cuisine for thousands of years. Chili peppers were an important ingredient in the Aztec diet and were even used as currency.

1600s

Introduction of chili peppers to Europe

In the 1600s, chili peppers were introduced to Europe by Christopher Columbus during his voyages to the Americas. These fiery peppers quickly captured the attention of European explorers, and they were fascinated by their unique flavor and spiciness.

1880

Birth of chili con carne

In the year 1880, the term 'chili con carne' was born in Texas. This dish, which translates to 'chili with meat' in Spanish, refers to a spicy stew made with meat, chili peppers, and various spices. It is believed to have been created by Mexican-American cowboys and became popular among cowboys and settlers in the region. The dish quickly gained recognition and became a staple of Tex-Mex cuisine.

1519

The First Encounter

In 1519, the term 'chili chili' had its first encounter with the world. This happened when Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés arrived in Tenochtitlán, the capital of the Aztec Empire. The Aztecs were already cultivating and consuming chili peppers, which they called 'chili'. Cortés and his men were introduced to this fiery ingredient and were amazed by its intense flavor and heat.

1600s

Origins of Chili

Chili peppers have a long history, dating back to the 1600s. These fiery peppers were first domesticated in the Americas and were an integral part of Native American cuisines. They were used in various forms, including fresh, dried, or ground into powders, to add flavor and spice to meals.

1828

Chili con Carne

The term 'chili' as we know it today traces its roots to the early 19th century. In 1828, the first published recipe for 'chili con carne' appeared in a San Antonio newspaper. This spicy stew typically included dried chili peppers, meat (usually beef), and various seasonings. The popularity of chili con carne grew rapidly, and it soon became a staple in Texan cuisine.

1600s

Chili Peppers Spreading Across Continents

During the 1600s, chili peppers began to spread across continents as European explorers and traders encountered them during their journeys. The Portuguese, in particular, played a significant role in introducing chili peppers to Asia as they established trade routes with Indian merchants. This led to the popularization and integration of chili peppers into various cuisines, including Indian, Thai, and Indonesian.

1800s

Mexican Influence

In the 1800s, Mexican cuisine introduced the concept of chili con carne, a spicy stew made with meat and chili peppers. This dish gained popularity in the United States and other countries, and the term 'chili chili' started being used to refer specifically to this flavorful dish. Chili con carne became a staple in Tex-Mex cuisine and its popularity grew throughout the 19th century.

1600s

Spread through Trade

During the 1600s, trade routes were established between Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Along these routes, the chili pepper made its way to other parts of the world, including Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. This widespread cultivation and consumption of chili peppers began to influence the cuisine and eventually led to the development of unique regional dishes.

1800s

The birth of chili con carne

The term 'chili con carne' emerged in the 1800s when Mexican settlers brought their spicy meat stew recipe to the United States, particularly in the American Southwest. It consists of chili peppers, meat (usually beef), and various seasonings cooked together to create a delicious and hearty dish.

1809

Introduction to the United States

Chili peppers made their way to the United States when Spanish-speaking settlers brought them to the region now known as New Mexico. These settlers began incorporating chili peppers into their cuisine, creating flavorful dishes that would later become iconic representations of Southwestern and Tex-Mex cuisine.

1529

Introduction to Europe

During the early 16th century, Spanish conquistadors explored the Americas and brought chili peppers back to Europe. This marked the introduction of chili to the European continent. The fiery taste and unique flavor of chili quickly gained popularity among Europeans, and chili peppers began to be cultivated in Spain and Portugal. From there, chili spread throughout Europe and became an important ingredient in various cuisines.

1809

First documented use of 'chili chili'

The term 'chili chili' was first documented in 1809 in the United States. It referred to a spicy stew made with chili peppers and meat. The origin of the term is believed to be Spanish, as 'chili' is derived from the Spanish word 'chile' meaning chili pepper.

1893

Chili con carne introduced at the World's Fair

The term 'chili con carne' gained national attention in 1893 when it was introduced at the World's Fair in Chicago. A San Antonio chili stand was set up at the fair, serving chili con carne to visitors from all over the world. The dish's bold and flavorful taste captured the hearts of fair-goers and helped popularize it outside of Texas.

1904

Chili powder becomes commercially available

In the year 1904, chili powder was first commercially produced and made available for purchase. This convenient spice blend made it easier for cooks to add the distinct flavor of chili to their dishes, including chili con carne. The availability of chili powder contributed to the continued popularity and spread of the term 'chili' in American cuisine.

Early 19th Century

Chili in the United States

Chili made its way to the United States through Mexican and Texan immigrants. In the early 19th century, chili became popular in the southwestern region of the country, especially in Texas. The Texan version of chili, known as 'chili con carne' (chili with meat), quickly gained popularity and became a staple food in the region.

1700s

Chili Con Carne Emerges

In the 1700s, the term 'chili chili' took a significant culinary turn when 'chili con carne' emerged. This hearty dish, consisting of chili peppers, meat, and spices, became a staple in Texan cuisine. Its origins can be attributed to the Mexican women living in the San Antonio missions who combined local ingredients with Spanish spices and techniques to create a delicious and satisfying dish.

1809

The Birth of Chili Con Carne

In 1809, the dish that would become known as 'chili con carne' was first created. A group of women in the town of San Antonio, Texas, known as the 'Chili Queens,' started selling a flavorful stew made with meat, chili peppers, and spices. This iconic Tex-Mex dish quickly gained popularity and became a staple of American cuisine.

1893

Chili at the World's Fair

Chili con carne gained national attention in the United States during the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition held in Chicago. The San Antonio Chili Stand served chili to the fairgoers, introducing many Americans to this flavorful dish for the first time. The popularity of chili con carne started to spread across the nation from this point onward.

1900s

Iconic American Dish

In the early 1900s, chili con carne evolved into a beloved American dish, celebrated for its unique flavor and versatility. It became a staple at county fairs, chili cook-offs, and roadside diners, with variations and regional styles emerging across the country. The term 'chili chili' became widely recognized as slang for chili con carne, reaffirming its cultural significance in the culinary landscape.

1880s

Chili Con Carne in Canned Form

In the late 1880s, the invention of the canning process revolutionized the food industry. Chili con carne was among the many dishes that could now be preserved and transported efficiently. This led to the widespread availability of canned chili, making it more accessible to a larger population. Canned chili quickly gained popularity and became a convenient and affordable option for many Americans.

1846

Chili con carne gains popularity

In the mid-19th century, chili con carne gained popularity in Texas. This hearty dish consisted of beef, chili peppers, and various spices. It quickly became a favorite among cowboys and travelers due to its rich flavor and ability to provide sustenance during long journeys.

1828

First chili recipe documented

The first recorded chili recipe, known as "chili con carne," was documented in 1828 in a cookbook called "The Family Receipt Book" by Lydia Maria Child. This recipe consisted of beef cooked with chili peppers, onions, and various spices. This marked the formal introduction of chili con carne to the American culinary landscape.

1904

Chili's association with Texas

Chili became strongly associated with the state of Texas in the early 1900s. It gained popularity as a hearty and affordable meal among cowboys, miners, and railroad workers. With the emergence of chili parlors, usually run by Mexican or Texas-Cherokee women, in towns like San Antonio and Dallas, chili became a staple of Texan cuisine.

1893

The Spread of Chili Parlors

In 1893, the Chicago World's Fair exposed people from all over the United States to chili con carne. The dish became an instant hit, and entrepreneurs opened 'chili parlors' across the country. These establishments offered variations of the chili recipe, sometimes spicing it up with additional ingredients like beans, onions, and cheese.

1893

The Chili Powder Revolution

The year 1893 marked a turning point in the history of 'chili chili' with the invention of chili powder by William Gebhardt, a German immigrant in Texas. Gebhardt developed a method to dry and grind chili peppers, creating a convenient spice blend that could be easily used in cooking. This innovation revolutionized the way chili was prepared, making it more accessible and widely enjoyed.

1921

First chili cook-off organized

The term 'chili' took another step forward in 1921 with the organization of the first chili cook-off. In Terlingua, Texas, a dispute between chili manufacturers about who made the best chili led to the creation of a cooking competition. This event marked the beginning of a tradition and helped establish chili as a beloved American dish. Today, chili cook-offs are held in various parts of the United States, showcasing the diverse and creative ways people prepare chili.

1921

Chili Powder Commercialization

In 1921, a Texan entrepreneur named William Gebhardt developed the first commercial chili powder. He ground dried chili peppers and created a convenient spice blend that could be easily used to flavor chili dishes. Gebhardt's chili powder was a game-changer, as it made it simpler for people to prepare chili at home. This contributed to the widespread adoption and popularity of chili as a comfort food.

1880

Chili powder invention

In 1880, a German immigrant named William Gebhardt invented chili powder. This invention revolutionized the preparation of chili con carne by creating a convenient and standardized spice blend. Chili powder quickly gained popularity, and it became an essential ingredient in making chili chili, enhancing the flavors and heat of the dish.

1893

San Antonio Chili Stand

The term 'chili chili' has its origins in the 1893 San Antonio Chili Stand. In that year, a group of women known as the 'Chile Queens' set up food stalls at the San Antonio Military Plaza. They served a spicy meat stew called 'chili con carne.' The dish was so popular that it became synonymous with the term 'chili.' The name 'chili chili' was coined to describe the delicious chili con carne served at the San Antonio Chili Stand.

Today

Chili Chili in Pop Culture

Today, 'chili chili' continues to be popularized through various forms of media and pop culture references. It is often associated with comfort food, tailgating, and social gatherings. The versatility of chili con carne has led to creative adaptations, including vegetarian and vegan versions. 'Chili chili' remains a cherished term, symbolizing the rich history, diverse flavors, and communal enjoyment of this spicy and hearty dish.

1893

San Antonio Chili Stand introduces 'chili chili' dish

The term 'chili chili' gained further recognition in 1893 when the San Antonio Chili Stand, a popular food vendor in Texas, introduced a dish called 'chili chili'. This dish featured a flavorful chili con carne served over a bed of spaghetti, topped with cheese and onions. It became a signature dish of the San Antonio Chili Stand and attracted locals and tourists alike.

1893

Chili at the World's Fair

Chili's popularity continued to grow, and it gained national attention when it was served at the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago. The fair introduced Americans from different regions to chili, and it quickly became a favorite comfort food across the country. Chili parlors started popping up in various cities, serving chili con carne and evolving it into different regional variations.

1967

The birth of the 'chili chili'

The term 'chili chili' emerged in 1967 when the fast-food chain, Wienerschnitzel, introduced a chili hot dog called 'the chili chili dog.' This iconic food item featured a beef hot dog topped with their signature chili con carne, further popularizing the term 'chili chili' in mainstream American culture.

20th Century

Chili Chili Goes Global

Throughout the 20th century, 'chili chili' gained global popularity and became a beloved comfort food in various countries. It found its way into American diners, where chili con carne became an iconic dish. Chili cook-offs and competitions also started to emerge, showcasing the diverse and creative ways people incorporated chili peppers into their recipes. Today, 'chili chili' continues to be celebrated around the world on National Chili Day, inviting people to indulge in its rich and spicy flavors.

1904

Chili and Hot Dogs Unite

The year 1904 marked the St. Louis World's Fair, where chili and hot dogs came together in a culinary union. A vendor named Chris Von de Ahe started serving chili on top of hot dogs, creating the popular chili dog. This combination became beloved by fairgoers and eventually spread throughout America, solidifying chili's place in fast food culture.

20th Century

Chili's Global Spread

In the 20th century, chili spread beyond the borders of the United States and gained popularity worldwide. It became a beloved dish in many countries, with each region adding its own unique twist to the recipe. Variations such as Cincinnati chili, Texas chili, and white chili emerged, each with its own set of ingredients and flavor profiles. Today, chili is enjoyed by millions of people around the globe and is celebrated with various national days dedicated to this flavorful dish.

1963

Chili Cook-Offs

The recognition and celebration of chili culture reached new heights in 1963 with the establishment of the International Chili Society (ICS). The ICS organized chili cook-offs, where contestants showcased their unique chili recipes and competed against each other. These cook-offs not only promoted the beloved dish but also helped preserve and pass down traditional chili recipes from generation to generation.

1977

Chili becomes the official state dish of Texas

Recognizing its cultural importance, chili con carne was officially declared the state dish of Texas in 1977. The designation solidified the deep-rooted connection between Texas and chili and further elevated the term's significance in American culinary history. Chili has become an integral part of Texan identity and continues to be celebrated and enjoyed throughout the state.

1977

National Chili Chili Day established

To celebrate the rich history and cultural significance of 'chili chili', National Chili Chili Day was established in 1977. It is observed on the last Thursday in February each year. On this day, chili enthusiasts and food lovers come together to enjoy various versions of this beloved dish, from traditional chili con carne to unique regional variations.

1977

Chili as State Dish

Chili's cultural significance was officially acknowledged in 1977 when the state of Texas designated chili con carne as its official dish. This recognition solidified chili's status as an iconic Texan culinary creation and further cemented its place in American culture. To this day, chili continues to be celebrated and enjoyed in various regional styles, with countless variations and ingredients.

1977

Chili Chili's Pop Culture Appearance

In 1977, the term 'chili chili' gained recognition in pop culture with the introduction of a beloved jingle. A fast-food chain called Chili's aired a catchy advertisement featuring the jingle 'Chili Chili Chili Chili!' The jingle further popularized the term and associated it with the enjoyment of delicious food, adding to chili's cultural impact.

1977

Chili Cook-Offs

Chili became so beloved in the United States that chili cook-offs began to emerge as popular events. In 1977, the International Chili Society (ICS) was founded with the mission to promote chili appreciation. Today, chili Cook-Offs are held nationwide, allowing participants to showcase their creativity and culinary skills in creating the best chili chili recipes.

Did you know?

Did you know that the world's largest pot of chili weighed over 6,000 pounds? That's enough chili to feed an entire village, or maybe just a really hungry T-Rex. Either way, that's a whole lot of spicy goodness!