The Order of the Eastern Star hosts first chili cookoff

By Fred Groves

“What’s the definition of chili?”, asked Carolyn Recker.

It was a rhetorical query and one not so readily answered Saturday night at the Fort Malden Chapter of the Easter Star on Murray Street in Amherstburg.

Several tasty and different styles of the popular dish were served up for judges and those with hearty appetites. It was a fundraiser and the first chili cookoff hosted by the Eastern Star.

“We raise money for charity all the time. This time it’s for Habitat for Humanity and the John McGivney Children’s Centre,” said Eastern Star Worthy Matron Brenda Hooper.

Recker’s entry into the contest had some interesting ingredients which she later divulged including garlic cloves, lime juice, chicken broth and shredded cooked rotisserie chicken.

“I was on the internet one night and saw it. I made it at home and my husband really likes it,” said Recker of her chili.

Prior to eating a great meal which included salad, bread and several different kinds of pie, each cook was allowed a couple of minutes to explain to the judges and those who were in attendance what actually was in their recipes.

Hooper’s described her chili as a true Texas style as it had no beans at all in it.

“It has a kick, but you don’t have to call the fire department as I brought the Tums,” joked Hooper. The event also had door prizes to give away and the judges were well taken care of. They gave out awards of their own and there was also a People’s Choice Award.

“It (chili) is what everyone likes. We’ve had a good response for it,” said Hooper of the cookoff.