Spring has sprung. Have some chili, jerk!

It's finally that time of the year. The birds are chirping, grills are getting fired up, and the smell of fresh cut grass lingers in the air. After a restless winter, people are starting to get out of their houses and out into the community. Local business owners have their doors wide open. Spring is upon us!

On a Saturday with no particular schedule, I found myself walking about downtown Kenosha with a few comrades. We became reacquainted with our downtown area, and visited all the favorites. With our on-foot adventure coming to a close, we decided to stop at one last establishment. We entered Scoops Ice Cream.

Scoops is a fine ice cream parlor tucked away in a quaint corner downtown. It is home to a plethora of flavors, some classic, some a little more daring. It was time to get a few free samples. Alas my eye caught the crown jewel of the flavors; Chocolate Chili.
















I have had the opportunity to try some interesting chili combinations in my life. Some of them good choices, some not so much. I jumped at the chance to sample this juxtaposition.

















What followed was about what I expected. A strong chocolate presence followed by a zesty chili kick that stayed with you. The kick may be too strong for some as I saw a little girl crying immediately following the taste test.
















The decision was unanimous. We all accepted the chocolate chili as it was. Scoops, you have inspired me. Who is to say where chili ends and begins in our world of food. Let the chili flow, I say!

THREE chili cooking tips

5. Chili filled Birthday cake- Surprise a friend or loved one with hot Texas chili secretly hiding beneath inches of white frosting!

4. Chili filled pancakes- Jack up your favorite pancake better with some of your homemade chili. Keep your friends on their toes by serving up a short stack of this spicy, curious creation.

3. Chili chip cookies- Strain your chili for several hours, leave it in the sun, and voilà! Take the hardened remains and replace them with the chocolate chips. School bake sale? I think so.


Come on down to Scoops Ice Cream Parlor on 6th Avenue and say hello to Ellen Schimian. Tell her Breadbowl sent you. Try the chocolate chili flavored ice cream if you're brave enough. Let your chili seap onto all pages of the menu, my friends.