National Chili Day

National Chili Day is an annual American holiday dedicated to the hot sauce. Today there are many variations of chili sauce, so everyone can find the best option for their tastes! The holiday is on the fourth Thursday of February.

History

Many people believe that chili sauce originated in Mexico, as people there loved spicy dishes and often used hot red pepper. However, an increasingly popular opinion is that the origin of the sauce is the state of Texas. The first mention of chili, preserved in written sources, refers to the city of San Antonio and dates back to 1828. Chili is said to be the product of a fusion of the traditions of several cuisines of the world: Indian, Mexican, and Spanish.

An even older legend has it that chili sauce was brought to Texas by immigrants from the Canary Islands at the beginning of the 18th century. In this case, the dish was called “Spanish stew,” and later the name “chili” appeared.

Since the end of the 19th century, the sauce began to spread actively throughout America, with the greatest demand in cities in the state of Texas. A significant boost to chili’s popularity came in 1893 when it was presented at the World’s Fair in Chicago.

Interesting Facts

• The original recipe calls for the use of red hot peppers. Its pungent taste comes from a substance called capsaicin.
• Consumption of hot sauce improves appetite, blood circulation, helps maintain a healthy heart and blood vessels, and strengthens the immune system.
• Red hot pepper contains vitamins A, E, C, PP, B vitamins, as well as a large number of different micro-and macronutrients. The capsaicin it contains is considered a natural antibiotic.

How to Celebrate

Visit a restaurant or cafe that offers chili sauce. If you like cooking, you can make it yourself. Also serve Spanish or Mexican food. When cooking, do not forget to use red pepper. Add a searing spice to your National Chili Day celebration.

Spread the word on social media. Ask other users if they like chili sauce. How often do they use it?

When is National Chili Day in 2025?

National Chili Day is observed on the fourth Thursday in February each year.

Observations