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October Chili Party
Some beat autumn’s frost with blankets, sweaters and burning maple. Joel Kessler outs the chill in another way. He warms up with chipotle peppers, chili powder and hot paprika — parts of a gastronomic fireplace he calls South of the Border Chili. The 28-year-old student in the culinary arts program at Schenectady County Community College brought a fiery crock pot of his favorite mix to The Daily Gazette on Monday — and scored first place in the newspaper’s October Chili Party. Chili dishes submitted by Richard Herrick of Johnstown, Mary Newton of Glenville and Steve Oathout of Clifton Park also were voted award-winners. Posted on October 7, 2009.
Joel Kessler of Schenectady earned first place in The Gazette’s October Chili Party with his fiery creation — South of the Border Chili. Ten chili recipes were put to the test at our offices on Monday.
Richard Herrick of Johnstown finished second with his Turkey Chili. The 81-year-old spices his creation with beer, honey, corn and curry.
Mary Newton of Glenville tied for third with her Colony Mountain Chili. Her ingredients include sirloin, sausage, beans, tomatoes and peppers.
Steve Oathout of Clifton Park tied for third with his creation, Snakebite Chili. Oathout is a patient man, as his chili is a couple of days in the making.
Mary Ann Hilton of Schenectady prepares her Thanksgiving Day Fruit and Nut Turkey Chili on Sunday, the day before the judging.
Mary Ann Hilton shows her Pineapple Passion Pulled Pork Chili on Sunday. Hilton had two entries in the Gazette's October Chili Party.
Crock pots filled with chili are lined up to be tasted during the Gazette’s October Chili Party on Monday.
Duty calls: Mona Golub was one of four judges.
Fringe benefit: Contestants get to sample each other’s chili.
