Food: Mrs. Grimes Chili Cook Off

Ankeny Cook Named State Fair Chili Cook Off Winner

Patty J. Hunt of Ankeny won first place and a $150 cash award in the Mrs. Grimes Chili Cook Off judged Tuesday, August 13, at the 2024 Iowa State Fair.

Kyle Barton of West Des Moines claimed second place and $75. Kim Peterson of Granger earned third place and $50.

Contestants were required to use at least two cans of Mrs. Grimes beans in their chili creations.

Entries were judged on taste, appearance and recipe originality.

The Iowa State Fair Food Department is the largest of any state fair in the country. There were 140 divisions, 726 classes and over 6,400 entries at this year’s Fair. Food Department judging is held in the Elwell Family Food Center.