The winner of the fourth annual Edwardsburg Presbyterian Chili Cook-Off will win this coveted award. (Leader photo/Provided)

In only four short years, the Edwardsburg Presbyterian Chili Cook-Off has become a much sought after honor.

The fourth annual Chili Cook-Off will be held Saturday at the Presbyterian Church on Lake Street. The event will run from 5 to 7 p.m.

The history dates back to three community churches getting together for a chili-off to raise money for the Edwardsburg Food Pantry. It grew from there into an annual event.

The Edwardsburg Lions Club was part of the original cook-off to help raise funds for the food pantry.

The cook-off was opened to the entire community, which allowed anyone to bring in their own delicious version of chili for the event. The winner took home a Chili Bowl traveling trophy, that would be adorned with their name much like the NHL’s Stanley Cup or the Indianapolis 500’s Borg-Warner Trophy.

The Edwardsburg Lions Club won three consecutive years. Becky Fisette took top honors the first year for the Lions, while Shane Szalai won the second year and Dave Stiffler captured the title the third year.

The Chili Cook-Off has averaged 12 contestants the first three years. Additional items to help enhance the flavor of the chili have included Fritos, cheese and sour cream.

Deserts are provided by the church members and are a perfect way to cap off the competition.

There is still time to take part in the event. Contact the Presbyterian Church at 663-6815 for more information.

Proceeds will once again benefit the Edwardsburg Food Pantry.