Early Bird

Chili competition warms hearts

Roadrunner students are invited to bring their family recipes to campus Feb. 27 – and you’re invited to taste-test, all for some great causes.

By Cory Phare

February 5, 2020

Who has the best chili? 

It’s a contentious question, but for many Denverites the answer is often “my parents/grandparents.” And now, thanks to Metropolitan State University of Denver’s School of Hospitality, students will bring those close-to-home concoctions to campus as part of a chili competition Feb. 27.

“In hospitality, we’re always thinking of how to bring our community together to address issues like food insecurity while celebrating their family’s recipe,” said Chef Jackson Lamb, hospitality professor heading up the event. “Plus, who doesn’t love chili in the cold months?”

Roadrunners will compete across best green, red and vegan chili categories, making 2 gallons of their family’s signature recipes in the Hospitality Learning Center’s banquet space (Rooms 200 and 202).

Competitors will prepare their recipes in the Hospitality Learning Center starting at 2 p.m., with service beginning at 5 p.m. The University will supply a condiment table with sour cream, shredded cheese, oyster crackers, diced onions and water; contestants will need to supply all other ingredients for assembly in the HLC.

At the end of the event, all unserved chili will be bagged, labeled and frozen in individual portions, then donated to the Roadrunner Food Pantry to help address student food insecurity. Other event partners include the University’s Department of Human Services, the Health Occupations Student Association and the Colorado Firefighter Calendar.

“It’s going to be a great time for some great causes, so we welcome everyone out to come and enjoy these one-of-a-kind family chili recipes,” Lamb said. “It’s a win-win for everyone involved.”

The tasting event is open to all MSU Denver community members with a $10 ticket ($5 for students); there is no cost for competitor entry. Funds collected at the door and proceeds from calendar sales will be donated to the Children’s Hospital Burn Unit.

For more information or for student registration, email Lamb.