Kentucky Bourbon Smoked Chili
Experience the heartwarming flavors of winter with our Kentucky Bourbon Smoked Chili, a delightful twist on a classic recipe. This robust chili combines lean meats with a medley of spices, all enhanced by the rich, smoky undertones of bourbon-smoked seasonings. The unique addition of Kentucky bourbon barrel ale infuses the chili with a deep, woodsy flavor that perfectly complements the hearty beans and tomatoes. Ideal for chilly nights, this chili not only warms the soul but also tantalizes the taste buds with every savory spoonful. Serve it with your favorite toppings for a comforting meal that brings friends and family together!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
19
Ingredients
Ingredients
lean ground beef
1 lb (browned)
ground turkey
1 lb (browned)
bourbon-smoked salt
1 teaspoon (seasoning)
bourbon-smoked black pepper
1 teaspoon (seasoning)
minced garlic
1 tablespoon (sautéed)
bourbon-smoked chili powder
3 tablespoons (toasted)
dried chipotle powder
2 tablespoons (toasted)
cumin
2 tablespoons (toasted)
dried oregano
2 tablespoons (toasted)
coriander
2 teaspoons (toasted)
smoked paprika
2 teaspoons (toasted)
ground turmeric
1 teaspoon (toasted)
Kentucky bourbon barrel ale
12 ounces (beer)
beef stock
4 cups (liquid)
crushed tomatoes
28 ounces (canned)
black beans
14.5 ounces (drained and rinsed)
pinto beans
14.5 ounces (drained and rinsed)
Kentucky bourbon barrel Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons (sauce)
chipotle hot sauce
1 tablespoon (sauce)
Instructions
1
In a large nonstick sauté pan, heat over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and turkey, season with bourbon-smoked salt and black pepper, and brown thoroughly until cooked through. Drain the excess fat and transfer the meat to a large pot or slow cooker insert.
2
In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the bourbon-smoked chili powder, chipotle powder, cumin, dried oregano, coriander, smoked paprika, and turmeric. Toast the spices for 1-2 minutes until aromatic, then add this mixture to the pot with the meat.
3
Pour in the Kentucky bourbon barrel ale and beef stock, followed by the crushed tomatoes, black beans, pinto beans, Worcestershire sauce, and chipotle hot sauce. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4
Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook on low heat for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together. If using a slow cooker, set it on low and let it cook for a similar time, or longer if desired. Be sure to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
5
For serving, ladle the chili into bowls and top with your choice of sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, tortilla strips, or any other toppings you love.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kentucky Bourbon Smoked Chili?
This is a hearty winter chili that blends lean ground beef and turkey with bourbon-smoked spices and Kentucky bourbon barrel ale for a unique, woodsy taste.
Which meats are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for one pound of lean ground beef and one pound of ground turkey, both browned before simmering.
What gives the chili its smoky flavor?
The smokiness comes from bourbon-smoked salt, bourbon-smoked black pepper, bourbon-smoked chili powder, and smoked paprika.
What is the purpose of Kentucky bourbon barrel ale?
The ale infuses the chili with a deep, woodsy flavor that complements the hearty beans and tomatoes.
How long does the chili need to simmer?
It should simmer on low heat for at least 2 hours to allow the complex flavors to meld together.
Can I use a slow cooker for this chili?
Yes, after browning the meat and spices, you can transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 2 or more hours.
What spices are included in the spice blend?
The blend includes bourbon-smoked chili powder, chipotle powder, cumin, dried oregano, coriander, smoked paprika, and turmeric.
Is Kentucky Bourbon Smoked Chili spicy?
It has a moderate kick from the chipotle powder and chipotle hot sauce, but you can adjust these to your preference.
What types of beans are in this chili?
This recipe uses 14.5-ounce cans of both black beans and pinto beans.
Can I make this with only beef?
Yes, you can substitute the ground turkey with an additional pound of ground beef if preferred.
Why is turmeric used in this chili?
Turmeric is added to the spice blend to provide an earthy undertone and additional depth of flavor.
What are the best toppings for this dish?
Recommended toppings include sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, and tortilla strips.
What can I substitute for bourbon barrel ale?
If unavailable, you can use a dark stout or simply more beef stock, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
How many varieties of beans does this recipe call for?
Two varieties: black beans and pinto beans.
Why should I toast the spices before adding liquid?
Toasting the spices for 1-2 minutes until aromatic helps to release their essential oils and intensify the flavor.
Can this chili be made ahead of time?
Absolutely; chili often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to develop in the refrigerator.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Note that bourbon barrel ale and some Worcestershire sauces contain gluten, so check labels or use certified GF alternatives if needed.
Can I freeze this chili?
Yes, this chili freezes well in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
What is bourbon-smoked salt?
It is salt that has been smoked over repurposed bourbon barrels to add a distinct oaky and smoky flavor.
How can I reduce the spiciness?
To reduce the heat, decrease the amount of dried chipotle powder and omit or reduce the chipotle hot sauce.
What size of crushed tomatoes is required?
You will need a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes.
Should I drain the beans before adding them?
Yes, the instructions specify that the black beans and pinto beans should be drained and rinsed.
How much beef stock is needed?
The recipe requires 4 cups of beef stock.
Can I use fresh garlic?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, which is equivalent to about 3-4 fresh cloves.
What does the Worcestershire sauce add?
Kentucky bourbon barrel Worcestershire sauce adds savory umami notes and a hint of tanginess.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add diced bell peppers, celery, or carrots during the browning process for extra nutrition and texture.
Is this recipe good for large groups?
Yes, it is a hearty and filling meal that is easy to scale up for parties or family gatherings.
What type of pan should I use to brown the meat?
A large nonstick sauté pan is recommended for browning the meat and toasting the spices.
How long do I sauté the garlic?
Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant before adding the spices.