On a brisk Saturday October 27th, before the Tartan football team took the field against Washington University, the Fourth Annual Homecoming Chili Cook-off was a hub of activity for hungry students and alumni alike. Located between the UC and West Wing with a great view of Gesling Stadium, the cook-off was sponsored by the Carnegie Clan and the Office of Alumni Relations. Many teams representing dorms, fraternities, and student organizations were on-hand to offer their representative chili to judges and the public alike. With over a dozen teams to choose from, competition chili was scarce for late-comers, regardless of how hungry they were. Fortunately, there was a line for non-competition chili, less delicious but never in short supply, despite the long line.

As for me, I was lucky to sample most, if not all of the chilies there. The Office of Alumni Relations had an exceptionally hot chili. Morewood's contribution came under the team name “Chilly Chili,” which with its mild cinnamon flavor, made more than a few come back for seconds. As an interesting variation, Tri-Delta served a cold chili – I was skeptical at first, but after trying it, I could see it making an excellent addition to a bowl of chips during the summer. With so many variations upon the classic dish, I had a hard time deciding between them all as to whose was the best. With the expertise of judges, however, the winning teams were “Mudge Luv” in third place, “Chilly Chili” in second place, and “Cooking from A-Z” in first place.

While the chili was good, it was the relaxed and festive atmosphere that really defined this year's cook-off. The air was full of excitement over free food and the excitement of the alumni. I'm certainly happy about it, and I would recommend every one go the next time it comes around, if not for the quality free cookware mug and the free meal, but for a chance to just relax and enjoy your Saturday afternoon.

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