The Secret to Winning Chili: A Personal Journey
Tana Harter has a clear vision of her ideal chili: it should embody creamy richness, have a captivating sheen, feature tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat, and deliver a consistent level of heat. However, just half an hour before the commencement of judging at the 2018 International Chili Society World Championship Chili Cook-Off in St. Louis, her chili pot was falling short of her high standards. In a moment of culinary ingenuity, she reached for the one ingredient she knew could elevate her dish.
Ms. Harter, a dedicated life coach hailing from Leesburg, Virginia, ultimately clinched victory in the traditional red category that year by adding two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar. She reflects on this pivotal moment, stating, “It was a crutch for me for a while.”
With over a decade of experience, Tana has participated in six to ten chili cook-offs each year, and she openly admits that vinegar has become her secret weapon. “I won $25,000 using apple cider vinegar. You have to look at the facts, and that is the fact,” she emphasizes, highlighting the importance of this simple yet powerful ingredient in her cooking arsenal.
Recipe: Classic Chili
To enhance this delightful bowl of chili, consider adding garnishes such as:
- Shredded cheese
- Crunchy tortilla chips
- Diced onions
- Fresh cilantro
These toppings not only add flavor but also elevate the overall presentation of the dish.
Credit: Christopher Testani for The New York Times. Food Stylist: Simon Andrews.