It is not a news flash that the mercury takes a nosedive in late January. Part and parcel to the challenging winter weather, some people tend to gravitate to a warm bowl of chili to warm their bones. Thus, calling people out to the track for a chili cook-off with an attractive first-place prize seems like a match made in heaven.
The Meadowlands Racetrack is calling all cooks for its first ever Homestyle Chili Cookoff to be held Saturday, January 30 at the East Rutherford, New Jersey facility. The contest offers a $1,000 first-place prize, plus a spot in the International Chili Society’s World Championship cook-off in Reno, Nevada.
Homestyle chili is defined by the International Chili Society as the cook’s favourite combination of ingredients resulting in a dish seasoned with chili peppers and spices. Contestants must cook their chili on site between 3:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. with judging promptly after.
“This event is another opportunity for us to create a unique event to expose new fans to our beautiful facility,” said Meadowlands General Manager and CEO Jason M. Settlemoir. “Plus, who wouldn’t love to cook and sample chili on a cold winter day!”
Cooks, both amateur and professional, are invited to register to participate by visiting the sign-up page at playmeadowlands.com. There is a $20 registration fee that must be paid prior to the start of cooking that covers the membership fee to the International Chili Society.
In addition to the chili competition, a separate side contest for homemade salsa will also be conducted offering the winner a $500 first prize.
For complete rules and information, visit playmeadowlands.com.
(With files from the Meadowlands)