Exotic Turkey Chili

This is NOT in any way, shape, or form a traditional chili—it has no connection with any Mexican or Texas recipe. However, it is wonderful. People request this for every mid-winter get together I throw. In fairness, try this recipe as written at least once. I’ve tried varying the recipe a few times, but didn’t get anything as fine as the original. Enjoy.

Attribution Link

Difficulty: Easy

Servings: 8-10

Prep Time: 30 min   Cook Time: 2-3 hours  

Ingredients

5-6 pound turkey, cut in quarters (Alternately, ask butcher to saw a 12-14 pound frozen turkey in half; or purchase turkey breast and drumsticks to meet weight)
1 onion stuck with cloves
2 stalks celery
2-3 sprigs parsley
2 small dried hot peppers
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons chili powder
4-ounce can peeled green chiles, finely chopped
1 cup almonds, ground
1/2 cup peanuts, ground
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 green peppers, finely chopped
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup small green olives
1/2 cup blanched almonds

Directions

Cover turkey pieces with water and add the onion stuck with cloves, celery, parsley, and peppers. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, skim off any scum which rises to the surface; cover the pot. Simmer until turkey is tender but not falling from the bones. Remove turkey pieces and cool until they can be handled. Remove the meat from the bones in good-size pieces.

Reduce broth by half over a brisk flame until you have about 4 cups broth. Strain and adjust the salt. Add chili powder, green chiles, and ground nuts. Then simmer until the mixture is thickened, smooth, and well-blended in flavor. If you wish, add additional chili powder. Saute the onion, garlic, and green peppers in olive oil. Add to the sauce and cook for 5 minutes. Add turkey meat and heat thoroughly. Finally, add olives and blanched almonds, then reheat for 3 minutes.

Serve with polenta squares or rice and crisp French bread. A radish and cucumber salad with vinaigrette dressing is good with this chili, as is beer.

Polenta squares: Prepare polenta according to package directions. Spread cooked polenta in 10 x 15 baking sheet. Cool. Cut into squares. Reheat squares in oven or on grill and serve with exotic chili.

Categories: Chilis, Crowd-Size, Entertaining, Main Dish, Other Soups & Stews, Potluck, Poultry

Submitted by: bonita on December 2, 2011