Of course, my own subjective preferences guided my ratings, but I discuss each recipe's strong points so that you can discover which one best ... a mild lager beer and simmered it in the chili ...

This white chicken chili recipe is a winner both figuratively and literally: Decades ago, it got first-place honors in a Kansas City cook-off, and it's been one of our best-loved versions ever since.

TUESDAY (Budget) -- This copycat chili (see recipe) is low in cost and mild in flavor. Add your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, low-fat sour cream and sliced jalapeno peppers.