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American Chilli: Tips & Tricks For Infusing Whisky/Bourbon In The Recipe

Smriti Dey

March 10, 2025

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Most distinctly known for using the slow-cooking method along with a host of spices, the American chilli recipe allows flavours to develop over time with an extended simmering process that extracts richness from ingredients and thickens the sauce to a hearty consistency. The deep, layered flavours of the dish are elevated further, with the addition of top-shelf, smoky spirits such as whisky or bourbon.

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Marinating Meat

Meat marinated with either of the spirits infuses the dish with complex, rich flavours, offering a unique layer of smokiness to your dish, as the spirit penetrates and tenderises the meat, improving its texture and caramelisation.

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Infused Broth Base

Creating an infused broth base using whisky or bourbon adds a unique twist to the foundation, bringing a depth of flavour to spicy, sweet and earthy ingredients.

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Liquor-Soaked Beans

The soaking process not only softens the kidney beans but also allows the alcohol to infuse its complex flavours into them, making it tender while also offering distinct complexity.

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Barrel-Aged Spice Mix

As the spices interact alongside the spirit, the flavours become ardent – try experimenting with barrel-aged spice mixes through different levels of infusion for better results.

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Slow-Cooking

This preparation method contributes to a uniform, tender texture in stews, as the alcohol helps to break down tough fibres and adding colour, affecting the final output significantly. *Drink Responsibly. This communication is for audiences above the age of 25.