Introduction

The term “chili” is also known as “chili con carne”. Many ingredients can be used to create this stew-like dish depending on the origin of the recipe. Chili is very popular in Texas. In fact, it is the official dish of the state!

History

There are several theories on the invention of chili. Some people believe chili was created in the Texas prison system, while others believe it was invented by chuck wagon cooks. Another theory states that is was invented in Mexico, (which many disagree with).

Chili is best known historically as cowboy food. This is because traveling cowboys would use whatever cut of meat they could, chili peppers, and fresh herbs, cooked for a long period of time (especially for tougher meats) to create what we know today as “chili con carne”. There are stories that the cowboys would plant herbs along the trails while headed west, and then they would go back and harvest them for ingredients in the “trail stew” on the way back home.

Another debate about the origin of chili claims it was created in the Texas prison system. According to this story, the prisons would get the cheapest cuts of meat, and boil chunks of the meat along with chili peppers and spices to feed the prisoners. There are even stories about released prisoners saying they missed having the chili while they were incarcerated.

There is also a theory that chili was invented somewhere in Mexico in the mid 1800’s. The exact region of its origination is debatable. The story behind its Mexican invention is that it was served as a complimentary dish served at “Cantinas”. This would mostly to cater to tourists. This may be the predecessor to the tradition of free chips and salsa at many Mexican restaurants today.

Styles

The different styles of chili vary from region to region. The Texas and southwestern chili dishes tend to be spicier, while Cincinnati style chili has more of a sweetness to it. Chili can be served in many different ways. It can be served like a stew by itself in a bowl, with pasta (Cincinnati style), with crackers, cheese, sour cream, etc, over hot dogs, or anything else you can think of!

They way chili is served is best left for personal opinion, but it makes a great dish to serve for the family. Please check out some of our recipes and feel free to add yours. We will be collecting recipes to showcase on this website for all to see! Thanks for visiting familychili.com. We hope you come back soon!