RAYMOND — Great news, everyone! There will be a chili cookoff at Pat’s Park in Raymond this weekend! This year’s proceeds will be used for repairs and maintenance of the Wilma Moe Ball Field to ensure it is available for future community events. There will be a cash prize for 1st place and awards for 2nd and 3rd place finishes.
Date & Time: Saturday, May 20, 2023, at 3 p.m.
Pat’s Park is located in the empty lot between the Raymond General Store and the post office. See map below.
The cookoff is free to attend and tasting tickets/ballots will be sold to the public.
There will also be a 50/50 raffle, a corn hole tournament, and a silent auction!
Just $20 to enter your chili in the cookoff.
Entry forms available at the Raymond General Store or they can be e-mailed to you by request.
Top 10 Tips for Making Great Chili
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Image by Monica.
Choose the right meat: For a traditional chili, go for ground beef or a combination of ground beef and pork. You can also use other meats like turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian options like beans or tofu for a different twist.
- Brown the meat properly: When cooking meat for chili, make sure to brown it well to develop rich flavors. Cook it over medium-high heat, breaking it into small pieces and stirring frequently until it’s nicely browned.
- Build layers of flavor: Enhance the taste of your chili by adding layers of flavor. Start with sautéing onions, garlic, and peppers in oil or butter before adding the meat. Then, incorporate spices and herbs to develop a well-rounded taste.
- Use a variety of chili peppers: Experiment with different chili peppers to achieve a complex flavor profile. Common choices include jalapeños, serranos, poblanos, or even smoky chipotles. You can use fresh, dried, or canned peppers depending on availability and personal preference.
- Toast and grind your own spices: For maximum flavor, toast whole spices like cumin, coriander, and chili powder in a dry skillet before grinding them. This process releases their essential oils and intensifies their taste.
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Image by gate74.
Simmer for a longer time: Allow your chili to simmer for an extended period to develop deep flavors and tenderize the meat. Low and slow cooking helps meld the ingredients together and enhances the overall taste.
- Incorporate a variety of beans: Beans are a popular addition to chili and provide a hearty texture. Mix different types such as kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, or even chickpeas to add variety and nutritional value.
- Balance the heat: Adjust the spiciness to your liking by adding chili peppers gradually. Remember that the heat can intensify as the chili cooks, so it’s better to start with less and add more later if desired.
- Add a touch of sweetness: A small amount of sweetness can balance the flavors in chili. Consider adding a bit of brown sugar, molasses, or even a hint of chocolate to enhance the depth of the dish.
- Let it rest before serving: After cooking, allow the chili to rest for at least 15 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and results in a more harmonious taste.
Remember, making chili is an art, and these tips are just guidelines. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and techniques to create your own signature chili recipe. Enjoy!
Raymond General Store
32196 Road 600
Raymond, CA 93653
559-689-3313
