A Fiery Feast of Competition
Taylorville, Illinois, is known for its annual Chillifest, a fun filled extravaganza that celebrates the humble chili. The festival features a variety of events, including two highly competitive cookoffs sanctioned by the International Chili Society (ICS): the Chillinois Cookoff and the Central States Cookoff.
The Chillinois Cookoff
The Chillinois Cookoff is a regional competition that attracts chili enthusiasts from across Illinois. This event is a great opportunity for local chefs and home cooks to showcase their chili-making skills and compete for prestigious awards. The Chillinois Cookoff typically takes place on the first day of Chillifest.
The Central States Cookoff
The Central States Cookoff is a larger-scale competition that draws chili makers from multiple states in the Midwest. This event is considered a significant stepping stone for aspiring chili chefs who dream of competing at the International Chili Championship. The Central States Cookoff is usually held on the second day of Chillifest.
What to Expect at the Cookoffs
Both cookoffs feature a panel of judges who evaluate chili entries based on a variety of criteria, including flavor, texture, aroma, and overall appeal. The winners of each cookoff receive cash prizes , bragging rights, and bids to the the world competition.
If you're a chili lover or simply looking for a fun-filled weekend event, be sure to check out Taylorville's Chillifest. With its delicious chili, friendly atmosphere, and exciting competitions, it's a must-attend event for food enthusiasts of all ages.
Chili Cook Competitors
CHILLINOIS Regional Chili Cook Off
Saturday, October 5th, 2024
CENTRAL STATES Regional Chili Cookoff
Sunday, October 6th, 2024
This cookoff is sanctioned by the International Chili Society.
ALL cooks must register through the ICS website at www.chilicookoff.com
Registration through ICS ensures your ICS status is current, you are eligible to compete and to recieve awards.
A minimum of at least 10 cooks are needed in each competing category.
Competing chili cooks are invited to the Cook's Pre-Party. Details for the event can be found HERE.
ALL competing cooks should read the Early Setup & Event Guidelines found HERE.
Chili Cook Off Judging
Chili cookoff judges evaluate chili based on a number of criteria, including taste, texture, aroma, color, and aftertaste:
Taste: The most important factor, chili should taste good and have a combination of spices and protein.
Texture: Chili should be smooth and have a good ratio of meat to sauce. It should not be too thick, watery, grainy, lumpy, or greasy.
Aroma: Chili should smell appetizing and indicate what it tastes like.
Color: Chili should look appetizing and reflect the ingredients used.
Aftertaste: Chili should have a pleasant aftertaste and not be bitter or metallic. The aftertaste is the heat from the spices and peppers.
To participate in the Chillifest chilli cook offs as a judge, check for availability and sign up HERE.