National Chilli Day
National Chili Day is a fantastic opportunity for all those who love spicy food to indulge in this fiery and flavoursome dish! Did you know that chili has its origins from Texas? It’s true! The Lone Star State is renowned for its delicious Tex-Mex cuisine, and chili con carne is one of its most famous contributions. This hearty dish consists of tender chunks of meat, typically beef, cooked with chili peppers, tomatoes, beans, and a medley of spices. The result is a mouthwatering blend of flavours that will leave you craving for more.
Chili has a long and interesting history. It is believed to have been developed by the indigenous people of the Southwest, who dried meat and combined it with ground chili peppers to create a portable and nutritious food source. Over time, chili became a staple in Texan cuisine and eventually spread across the United States, becoming a beloved comfort food in many regions.
The popularity of chili is not limited to the United States. This versatile dish has gained a global following, with variations and adaptations found in cuisines around the world. From the spicy chili con carne of Mexico to the milder chili sin carne of India, there is a chili recipe to suit every palate.
If you’re looking to add some heat to your meals, chili is the way to go. Not only does it provide a satisfying kick, but it also offers a range of health benefits. Chili peppers are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. They also contain capsaicin, a compound that has been shown to boost metabolism and reduce inflammation.
So, whether you prefer your chili mild or mouth-burning hot, National Chili Day is the perfect time to celebrate this iconic dish. Grab a bowl of chili con carne, top it with cheese and onions, and savour every spicy spoonful. Don’t forget to share your love for chili on social media with hashtags like #NationalChiliDay, #SpicyFood, #TexMex, and #ChiliConCarne. Let’s spread the chili love and make this National Chili Day one to remember!
Check out out below for meat and vegetarian chilli recipes
Hairy Bikers chilli con carne
Prep time: 20 mins
Cook time: 1 hour
Serves 5
Here’s a spicy classic you can still eat while on a diet. Serve with a salad and/or a very small portion of rice. Don’t forget you’ve already got carbs in the beans.
Source: Hairy Bikers, find the recipe here
Easy vegetarian chilli
Prep: 25 mins
Cooks: 55 mins
Serves: 8
Rustle up our easy veggie chilli. It’s a great recipe for batch-cooking – you can easily double it if you have a pan big enough, and freeze the rest
Source: BBC Good Food, find the recipe here
