Chef Reilly's Pumpkin Chili
October 19, 2021
Nothing says fall quite like pumpkins and chili. There are many legends and myths surrounding the origin of chili; however, it is believed that chili originated in the 18th century in what we now know as San Antonio, Texas. It began as a poor man’s dish, as it was made from the cheapest ingredients and was often served in prisons.
This view of chili lasted until 1893 when the San Antonio Chili Stand was introduced at the Columbian Exposition right here in Chicago. After chili’s introduction to the world at the Columbian Exposition, its popularity only grew.
Today chili has become a cold-weather staple and a favorite for cookoffs. With the weather in Chicago starting to cool off and sweaters being pulled out of the abyss of our closets or drawers, there is no better time for a hearty, warm and filling bowl of chili. The addition of pumpkin not only gives this chili body, but also provides a fun and festive fall twist to a classic chili recipe. For a little extra flair, serve your chili in the hollowed-out pumpkins left over from making your purée.
Reilly Marino
Associate Research & Development Chef
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