East Rutherford, NJ — The battle is on Saturday (Jan. 26) in Meadowlands Racing & Entertainment’s fourth annual Homestyle Chili Cook Off.

As of Jan. 15, 23 contestants are registered to compete for the $1,000 grand prize plus a spot in the International Chili Society’s World Championship cook off in Reno, Nev.

There is also a $500 prize for second place and $250 cash prize for the third place chili.

2018 Meadowlands Homestyle Chili and Salsa winners. Lisa photo.

Homestyle chili is defined by the International Chili Society as any kind of meat/combination of meats and/or vegetables cooked with beans, chili peppers, chili powders, various spices and other ingredients. Beans are required. Contestants must cook their chili on site between 4:30-7:30 p.m. with judging promptly after.

Chili cooks can still register for the Jan. 26 Cook Off at http://chilicookoff.com/register.

The 2017 Meadowlands winner, Joseph Callahan, went on to win the 2017 International Chili Society’s World Championship for his homestyle chili and took home the $4,000 prize.

“This has become a must attend event to kick off the year,” said Meadowlands General Manager and COO Jason M. Settlemoir. “We are excited to see how our Homestyle Chili Cook Off has grown and are really looking forward to tasting some delicious chili.”

Racetrack guests are also welcome to sample the chili and vote for their favorite. The fan favorite cook will walk away with the $250 prize. Fan favorite voting begins at 7:30 p.m., with voting ballots available at the Players Club Desk and in the live racing program.

In addition to the chili competition, a separate side contest for homemade salsa will also be conducted offering the winner a $500 first prize.

As an added bonus, fans can enjoy live harness racing with first race post time at 7:15 p.m.

For complete chili event details visit this link.