Big Al’s Whiskey Infused Chili

Portions:12
includes marination 12 hours
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Equipment

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds stew meat cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 pound Italian sausage casing removed, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 6 cups beef stock
  • 26 ounces Italian plum tomatoes
  • 1 large green bell pepper chopped
  • 1 large red bell pepper chopped
  • 1 large Spanish onion chopped
  • 6 Ancho peppers chopped
  • 4 jalapeno peppers chopped (seeds removed)
  • 8 cloves garlic chopped
  • 4 bay leaves
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 3 tablespoons ground cumin
  • 2 tablespoons oregano
  • 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon hot pepper sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon crushed basil leaves
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 cup whiskey
  • ¼ cup virgin olive oil

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, combine half of the herbs and spices, 4 cloves of chopped garlic, 4 cups of beef broth, and 1 cup of whiskey.
  • Add the stew meat and Italian sausage pieces to the bowl, ensuring they are covered by the liquid.
  • Add more beef broth if necessary.
  • Marinate the mixture in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 12 hours, covered tightly.
  • The next day, in a 5-quart stockpot, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil over medium heat.
  • Remove the marinated meat from the refrigerator and using a slotted spoon, transfer the meat to the pot, reserving the marinade.
  • Chop the onion, red and green bell peppers, Ancho peppers, and jalapeno peppers (seeded).
  • Add them to the pot with the remaining chopped garlic.
  • Cover and sweat the ingredients for 5 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally.
  • Add the marinated meat to the pot and brown for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Pour in the reserved marinade, remaining beef broth, and remaining herbs and spices.
  • Simmer for 15 minutes.
  • Add the plum tomatoes (peeled) and drained kidney beans to the pot.
  • Cover and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste during cooking.
  • Remove the bay leaves before serving.
  • Serve the chili with warm crusty bread, chopped red and green bell peppers, chopped Spanish onions, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and oyster crackers.
  • Pair with a hearty red wine such as Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Chianti.
  • Cold beer also complements the chili well.

Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:

Wine Advice:

Serve this robust and flavorful chili with a hearty red wine like Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, or a quality Chianti. The wine’s bold flavors will complement the richness of the chili perfectly.
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Course Chili / Main Dish