Chili originated in Mexico during the 1840s as a dish served at cantinas to please outsiders, who wanted something spicy and "Mexican" to eat, but also free or cheap. The essential ingredients are chili peppers and meat. Variations, either geographic or by personal preference, may include tomatoes, onions, beans, and other ingredients.

During the 1880s, brightly-dressed Hispanic women known as "Chili Queens" operated around public gathering places in downtown San Antonio. They would appear at dusk, selling chili by the bowl to passers-by. The aroma was a potent sales pitch, aided by mariachi street musicians, who joined in to serenade the eaters. Chili con carne became the official dish of the U.S. State of Texas.

Over the years, hundreds of small, family-run chili joints could be found throughout Texas and other states, particularly those in which émigré Texans had made their new homes. Each establishment usually had a claim to some kind of "secret recipe."

Most die-hard Texas chili purists will argue that chili should contain no beans, but rather that the beans should be cooked separately and served alongside. The meat is bite-size or coarsely ground.

Vegetarian chili has now become popular and so has white chili, which uses chicken instead of beef. The resulting dish appears white, and has more of an alkali bean taste, instead of the acidic taste of "regular" chili.

Personally, I like my chili “hot,” with chopped onions and shredded cheese. But, whatever your preference, you can start salivating now.

The Sea Isle Chili Fest will be held on Sunday, Jan. 27, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Community Lodge on Kennedy Blvd. Everyone is invited to come out and sample chili from about a dozen chefs in four categories: hot, regular, vegetarian, and white. It’s all free.

According to Nicole Holt, event coordinator, the Department of Recreation will also serve water, cornbread, and rolls to help balance the palate. The public will also vote for their favorite in each category. Just don’t expect to learn about the secret recipes. Winners will receive foodbaskets containing chili-related cooking supplies from Jammin Jellies.