galen

SOLID CHILI RECIPE

Derived from another, more basic recipe years ago, Ive tried messing around with the one below more than once, and often, I was pleased but I wouldnt recommend it. All opening run-on sentences aside, please heed my advice when I advise that you NOT skimp on any of the specified items below. If you cant find them, contact me and Ill either guide you to them or get them for you. Everything mentioned is readily available at either Cub or Byerlys. You have my word on that. I dont like a lot of chili powder in my chili, but you can do as you wish to finish it off. Just dont forget the sugar at the end. It rounds everything off nicely and makes all the flavors marry and pop. (one of the many things I learned from my mother over the years. I still remember to put the seat down too, imagine that. ~proud smile~) Also, it may seem like a lot, but stick to the directions. Chili should be done in layers and seasoned in layers as you build it. Love what you do and take your time. Slow is the way when it comes to anything, yes?


2 Big pkgs of Extra lean ground turkey (not frozen, spendy but worth it)
1 Head of celery (chopped)
3 Large yellow onions (chopped)
1 Head of garlic (diced)
1 Medium pkg of frozen sweet corn (green giant, whatever)
2 Cans of black beans (bushes)
4 Small cans or jars of mild green chilies (Ortega if ya wanna skimp)
1 Jar of roasted corn and black bean salsa (Desert Pepper Trading Company)
2 Big cans of stewed tomatoes
2 Big cans of crushed tomatoes
1 Small can of tomato paste (the little itty bitty can)
2 to 3 Tbsp of ancho chili powder (Paul Prudomme, spice isle)
2 to 3 Tbsp of another high quality chili powder (yer choice)
1 Tsp of dried red pepper flakes (the kind ya put on pizza, this is gonna add heat)
2 Tbsp of sugar
Olive oil
Kosher salt
Fresh ground pepper
My magic seasoning (Ill give ya some, or ask me for the recipe)

Use a big ol stock pot, pour a couple Tbsps of olive oil in and add the garlic and season with salt and pepper, cook over medium heat. After the oil is flavored (about 8 minutes) add the onions and cook until translucent, again, season with salt and pepper, stirring after each addition. Add the celery and cook another 5 minutes, then add the turkey, seasoning with salt, pepper and 2 Tbsps of the magic stuff while you break it up and brown it. Once its browned (but not cooked through yet) add the green chilies and red pepper flakes and stir, always stir my friend. Then start adding the stewed and crushed tomatoes and the tomato paste. Let this come up to temp a bit, then add the salsa, chili powders, black beans and stir and let it come up to temp again. (were talking like.25 minutes or so) Let it cook for a while and taste it after you stir it. Adjust the seasoning if you need to, then add the sweet corn. Stir and taste again, then finish with the sugar to your liking. If its spicy enough, 2 Tbsps is just about right (I like mine kinda hot). Let it cook for about an hour over low heat, stirring every 15 minutes and enjoy =)

Galen