The Chili Cook-Off Is Nigh

It’s time again for the Great Bonac Chili Cook-Off, when home cooks and professional chefs throw their best versions of chili in the ring, to be tasted and rated by members of the public.

The cook-off, sponsored by the Clamshell Foundation, will take place on Jan. 31 at the American Legion Hall in Amagansett, but registration in advance is required at clamshellfoundation.org.

Cooks can enter any kind of chili and, along with it, take along a ladle to spoon it out, condiments, and an ingredients sheet. Warming trays, Sterno, napkins, bowls, and spoons will be provided. Crock-Pots are not allowed. The cost to enter is $25 for individuals or fire departments, and $100 for professional chefs. Those who want to eat and rate the offerings between 1 and 4 p.m. on the day of the contest will be charged $15 ($10 for kids age 6 to 16). Kids under 6 can taste for free.

Top winners in the professional, individual, and fire department categories will receive Hall of Fame plaques. Second and third-place winners will earn trophies. A gift basket will be awarded to the cook who makes the “audience favorite.”

The event kicks off the Clamshell Foundation’s annual membership drive. Proceeds will be used to provide scholarships to local students and for food donations to churches and food pantries.