The rules of the game

The International Chili Society is strict about what can, and cannot, be included in a pot of chili — at least for judging purposes. The following are the rules for each of the four styles currently recognized for competitions, according to the official website, chilicookoff.com.

Traditional Red Chili is any kind of meat/ combination of meats cooked with red chili peppers/powders, various spices and other ingredients. Non-meat fillers are not allowed, including beans. Preference is neither given to cut meat nor ground meat.

Homestyle Chili is any kind of meat/ combination of meats and/or vegetables cooked with beans, chili peppers/powders, various spices and other ingredients. Beans

are required. Preference is neither given to cut meat nor ground meat. Seafood is considered meat. Homestyle chili may be any color, including red, green, white and yellow.

Chili Verde is any kind of meat/ combination of meats cooked with green chili peppers/powders, various spices and other ingredients. Beans and pasta are not allowed. Preference is neither given to cut meat nor ground meat.

Veggie Chili is any kind of vegetable/ combination of vegetables cooked with chili peppers/powders, various spices and other ingredients. Beans (legumes) are allowed. Meats and/or any meat byproduct are not allowed. The use of soy and other “meat” substitutes is allowed. Veggie Chili may be any color, including red, green, white and yellow.