With fall and the cooler weathers in full swing, I know you’re probably looking up differently hearty recipes to fill your bellies. I bet chili is at the top of your list!

I recently had the unique opportunity to speak with Chef Jeffrey Saad. Listen to what Chef Saad says are some staple ingredients for your chili, how to put a unique spin on your chili (hint hint: it may have something to do with butternut squash) and discuss results of a brand new survey and what it says about people’s choices in chili cooking methods and essential chili ingredients.

Jeffrey Saad hosts United Taste of America on the Cooking Channel and has written multiple cookbooks including Jeffrey Saad‘s Global Kitchen: Recipes Without Borders. He’s also been featured on the Food Network Show’s Chopped-All-Stars and Iron Chef America.