Two longtime chili cookoffs came together today - and I was lucky enough to be able to help judge once again.



Wagging Tails and Nitro Ales is an official ICS chili cookoff for Dog Bless, a dog rescue group in WV. And Smoke on the Water is usually held in the summer during FestivALL and raises money for HospiceCare.



Today was the first really chilly day that I've spent outside this season, but that's perfect for chili.



The event had both hot chili and cold beer, as well as a nod to Cassie Johnson, the Charleston Police Officer who was killed in the line of duty last December.



I was tasked with helping to judge the homestyle category. So while waiting for that round to start, I purchased some sample tickets to try some of the other versions.



For example, I checked out some of the verde chilis. Usually these are not my favorite, but the ones I had today were delish! They had great balanced flavors but didn't feel super heavy.



I also didn't get judge the traditional red this year, which is much more standard in terms of ingredients and flavors.



So, my favorite is always homestyle. I think it gives the cooks more leeway to explore their creativity. 



I love getting a chili that has some heat, but also some sweetness and a perfect medium consistency with a variety of ingredients like meat, beans, etc. 



How do you take your chili?