Ken Calvert – Perfect Week for King Chili’s Recipe
Ken Calvert was more than just a voice on the radio—he was my friend. He was our friend. KC was what I call “one of one” – one of the most original people I’ll ever meet, and he left a permanent mark on my soul. I miss him.
Driving to work today I started thinking about how much Kenny loved the Lions. And on a weekend like this, with Detroit taking on the Bills, I can’t help but think of him. Ken loved this team with the kind of fierce loyalty only a true Detroiter could muster. And can you imagine how much joy KC would be taking from this years team? Oh, he’s smiling down right now with his big grin waiting for me to make his famous chili. Because looking out the window – It’s definitely chili season.
Ken Calvert LOVED Chili – talking about it, cooking it
Ken’s chili wasn’t just food—it was an experience. A ritual. He’d talk about it with the same passion he brought to everything else in his life, from rock ‘n’ roll to his family. He poured himself into it, just like he did with his stories on the air. That recipe, crafted with love and a little bit of fire (thanks to the tequila and jalapeños), was a reflection of his personality: bold, warm, and unforgettable.
KC lived a life that impacted so many people in Detroit (and beyond). His chili is a celebration of that life and love. So this Sunday as the Lions and Bills square off, take some time and try this recipe…and maybe a nod up to the sky in honor of the Casual One. Love you Kenny Boy.
Here it is: Ken Calvert’s Famous Chili Recipe
Ken Calvert’s **“FAMOUS CHILI”**
*…After one bowl, you’ll scream “I need another!!!”*
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**Part I: Meat Ingredients**
– 2 lbs. lean ground beef (chili grind)
– 2 lbs. lean ground pork (chili grind)
– 2 lbs. tenderloin tips
*(Cook separately and simmer…add salt & pepper)*
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**Part II: Basic Ingredients**
– 1 (12 oz.) can of beer *(optional)*
– 1 (1½ oz.) shot of tequila *(optional)*
– 1 (46 oz.) can spicy V-8 juice
– 1 (8 oz.) jar hot taco sauce *(possibly 2)*
– 1 (15 oz.) can “herbal” tomato sauce (Hunt’s)
– 2 (6 oz.) cans of tomato paste
– A good dash of Worcestershire sauce
– A good dash of red wine vinegar
– 1 beef bouillon cube
– 1 TBS Texas BBQ sauce
– 1 finely diced bulb of garlic
– 1 chopped large white onion
– 1 chopped large green pepper
– 2 (4 oz.) cans finely chopped jalapeño peppers
– Brown sugar *(sweeten to taste)*
*In a large two-gallon chili pot, combine all the ingredients of Part II with Part I.*
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**Part III: Spices**
– 4 TBS fresh chili powder *(add more if you like)*
– 2 TBS cumin pepper
– 2 tsp ground coriander
– 1 tsp crushed red pepper
– 1 tsp ground cayenne
– 2 tsp dried oregano
*Add your spices…but feel free to add or subtract to your taste.*
There it is. KC’s chili recipe. Enjoy this weekend and smile knowing you lived in a city with Ken Calvert. I miss my friend, but I’m blessed for knowing him. – Jim
