Like BBQ and pizza, chili sparks heated regional debates. Beans, spices, types of meat, and even the spelling are sources of controversy, as anyone who has been to a chili cookoff knows well.
But here at Dot Foods, all chili—even chilli or chile—is welcome. Devour is embracing chili experimentation with five trends.
1. Chili With Extra Chili Peppers
Consumers have increased their tolerance for spice, so what better way to satisfy their need for heat than with an extra spicy pot of chili? Chefs can seek inspiration across regions and countries, from New Mexico’s Hatch chile to Italy’s Calabrian peppers.
2. Asian Style
Originating in the Southwest, we tend to associate chili with Tex-Mex and other regional U.S. cuisines. But why be so limited? East Asian flavors lend themselves well to the dish. Experiment with gochujang, kimchi, wasabi, soy sauce, and coconut milk to serve up something different.
3. Thanksgiving Leftovers
Cornbread, cranberries, turkey—all staples of the Thanksgiving table, but it just so happens they make for a delicious pot of chili. Create a festive LTO in November with turkey chili topped with cornbread crumbs and dried cranberries.
4. Sweet & Spicy
Unexpected, sweeter ingredients give chili a different dimension. Mango might sound like a strange addition, but the sweet fruit brightens up both the flavor and appearance of a standard bowl. Butternut squash has a similar effect and also thickens the stew.
5. Maximize Menu Possibilities
Instead of only serving it in a bowl, make the most of chili by giving diners more ways to enjoy it. Chili is a great topping on sides and appetizers, like tater tots, fries, nachos, baked potatoes, and even spaghetti. Or, make a bowl of chili even more craveworthy by using a bread bowl and giving consumers their choice of toppings.
Your Sourcing Solution
Chili isn’t exactly avant garde, but there are still plenty of opportunities to push it to the next level. Whether you’re looking to make chile verde, chili con carne, or chart your own path, you can find ingredients at Dot Foods.
Our selection will give you the chilis. Discover chili products today.