The 4th annual Jack Daniels' Chili Challenge Cook-Off, featuring traditional and fanciful ingredients from more than 20 area restaurants and caterers competing for a $1,000 grand prize, will be held Saturday, Nov. 9, 3-6 p.m. at Sidetrack, 3349 N. Halsted.
The spirited tasting event ( each chef must include Jack Daniels as a chili ingredient ) will feature recipes that run the gamut from wild game, seafood, chicken and vegetarian to beanless as well as an array of exotic seasonings and spices. Attendance at this year's cook-off is expected to top last year's crowd of more than 600. All who attend are eligible to sample and vote on their favorite chili to determine the grand prize winner. Donation to the event is $10. Proceeds benefit the Chicago Area Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce.
In addition to the chili tasting competition, there will also be a special appearance by "Whisky Professor" John Barrett, who will provide insights on the whisky manufacturing process. In addition, the event will feature the sale of limited-edition bottles of Jack Daniels whisky brewed specifically for Sidetrack, samplings of Jack Daniels whiskey, entertainment and a book of the event's 2001 chili recipes.
The number of entries for the chili cook-off challenge is limited to 25.
More information can be obtained by calling Sidetrack at ( 773 ) 477-9189. Restaurants and caterers interested in participating can call the Chicago Gay/Lesbian Chamber at ( 773 ) 303-0167.