Brian Baumgartner reveals what it is like to be a chili judge

While his character “Kevin” might have spilled chili, Brian Baumgartner is spilling the secrets behind some of the country’s best chilis. As a judge at the recent World Championship Chili Cook-Off, Baumgartner learned a few tips and tricks to the best bites in that bowl. Could these secrets make the home cook a chili champion?

Although some home cooks have had their own version of a chili cook-off, the professional judge has a very particular role in the judging process. When he was taking a break from the tasting, Baumgartner spoke to FoodSided and dished the ins and outs of the chili goodness.

When it comes to judging, there is a method to all the eating. From the pattern of sampling each bowl to the anonymity of the competitors, Baumgartner was surprised that formality really works to keep the judges from feeling overwhelmed, as well as avoid any chili spill issues.

Since Baumgartner has embraced his connection with chili and potential spills, he was forthcoming about the techniques to avoid spillage at this competition. Even though there was not an anti-spill pot or a big bib, the method of judging helped him to avoid spillage on his shirt. Just maybe those techniques might come out in a future chili day how-to segment.

Has Brian Baumgartner found the secret to a great chili?

According to Baumgartner, the World Championship Chili Cook-off found the perfect amount for each judge to sample in order to avoid chili overload. Even after tasting 20 chilis, he was able to determine which three would be his top preferences. In addition, it was quite interesting that the many judges had similar outcomes. It seems that a great chili really stands out in the crowd.

Although only one chili champion could be crowned in each category, the reality is that great chili comes in all varieties. Baumgartner shared that some of his favorites were both tradition and non-traditional flavors.

Only one person earned the coveted Chili Champion jacket. Still, the whole festival showcased that chili is an expression of personality. From family recipes that have been passed down to pushing the flavor conversation, that bowl of chili provides more comfort than people realize.

Did Brian Baumgartner learn the chili champion’s secret ingredient?

During the event, Baumgartner did a cooking demo with one of the chili champions. While the quick demo discusses all things chili, Baumgartner learned a secret ingredient that could change a chili recipe going forward.

According to Baumgartner, he learned that the chili champion uses arrowroot flour in the recipe. He explained that the “arrowroot helps to combine all the spices and flavors together. It isn’t necessarily a thickening component, but it seems to mellow all the ingredients.”

Given that a chili champion revealed one of his secrets, it might be the little boost to make that next pot of chili even tastier. It might not necessarily earn the big prize, but it could make that chili stand out in a crowd.

And, don’t forget those Bush’s Beans in the pot. It is the classic ingredient that always makes a pot of chili taste better.

Do you have a chili secret to share? What is the best chili that you’ve eaten?