a garden chili.

As you may be able to tell, from the last post & this one, I am getting pretty excited for fall. I love fall. The colors, the flavors, the coziness...& Shipyard Pumpkinhead Ale.

This stew is a combination between a chili & a ratatouille--utilizing the flavors of the season. It is an amazing starter for all those cozy autumn dinners, while using whats in the markets & gardens now.

a garden chili. 

serves 4

If you want to make this vegetarian, substitute the turkey for your favorite white beans. Just skip the initial 'browning', & just add the spices, beans, & veggies together. 

a drizzle of olive oil

a nob of butter
1 medium onion, diced
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb. free-range ground turkey

1 tsp. corriander seeds
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. chili pepper flakes
1/2 tsp. black peppercorns
1/2 tsp. cumin seeds or powder
sea salt to taste

1 small zucchini, diced
1 small summer squash, diced
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

2 TBL dry white wine
1 heaping TBL tomato paste
3/4 cup water

to serve:
2-4 scallions, chopped
sour cream
grated cheese, your preference (I used an aged sharp cheddar--but even a crumbly goat cheese would be good
spicy & sweet salsa* (optional)

1. In a large pot over medium heat combine oil, butter, onion & garlic. Cook the onions until they are tender, about 7-8 minutes. 
2. Add the turkey & begin to brown. Meanwhile, add all the spices in a mortar & pestle & bash until a combined powder. Add to the turkey & continue to brown (about 2-3 minutes). 
3. Add the rest of the veggies & cook for another 5 minutes. Add wine, tomato paste & water. Bring to a boil & then reduce to a simmer. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. 
4. Serve hot with accouterments. Although, I will admit that this tastes even better after it sits for a little while! Soups & stews usually do.

spicy & sweet salsa.*
This is a very versatile & subtle salsa. Use it on eggs, tacos or Asian-inspired dishes. 

1/2 cup onion
1/2 jalapeno
1/4 cup pear
1/4 cup cilantro
juice of a 1/2 a lime
sea salt & cracked pepper

1. Put all ingredients in a food processor & blitz until the texture is fine. 

happy eatings & cheers!