Chili Cook-Off Journey
On a Tour of the SHS Campus for the adults during Shadow Day for prospective students I learned there was an annual Chili Cook-Off. From that moment on I was hooked. I love to cook and experimenting with flavor profiles. Aside from the amazing educational opportunity for my children I was facing the beginnings of a wonderful adult experience as well.
From the first Chili Cook-Off in 2019 representing the 3rd graders with other 3rd grade parents the chilis prepared evolved from crude college days recipe to recipes developed months ahead with the help of a now seasoned Cook-Off team!
Today, all members are from the Portola Valley area and enjoy hamming it up in the booth. I will admit, it took me 5 years to relax and get out of the booth to enjoy some of the other chili offerings. Thank you team for being awesome!
The Art of Chili Making
Not sure there is an art but each year I pick a recipe and try to make it work. The recipe I start with is far from the one I end up with after 7 or 8 iterations and change of directions. That is part of the fun for me and hope you enjoy the fruits of my labor.
Through the years I like to think I challenged myself to try things a little less ordinary from like the Korean Inspired Chili or the 2025 attempt we are about to attempt. There are so many similarities among other culters stews and our chili. For one they typically have all the same elements minus the type of chili they use. Check out the recipes and enjoy as they are or make them your own by modifying such as I had. Enjoy!