Classic Chicago-style dishes with a twist

Chicago dogs, Italian beef and hoagies are some common Chicago-style favorites. Anthony Crocenzi, Executive Chef at KISS and The Venue Scottsdale stopped by to show us to make those favorites, and spice them up a bit.

Here are some recipes:

Relish
6 Pickling Cucumbers (small dice)
1t Pickling Spice
1t Salt
1c Sugar
1c White Vinegar
2t Green Dye (optional)

In small pot, bring all ingredients except cucumbers to a boil. Place cucumbers in jar.  Strain liquid, then pour over top, cool uncovered in fridge for 1-2 hours. Place lid on jar and store an additional 24-36 hours.  

Giardinera
2c Fresh Sport Peppers (3/8" slice)
1ea Red Bell Pepper (1/4" dice)
1ea Yellow Bell Pepper (1/4" dice)
1ea Med Yellow Onion (1/4" dice)
2ea Celery Stalk (3/8" dice)
2T Mustard Seed
1c Sugar
1c Pure Olive Oil
1c White Vinegar
1t Salt
1T Dried Oregano
1T Crushed Red Pepper Flake

In medium pot, bring vinegar, mustard seed, sugar and pepper flake to a boil.  Add olive oil, salt and oregano, remove from heat.  Place peppers, celery and onion in jar.  Pour liquid over top.  Cool uncovered in fridge for 1-2 hours. Place lid on jar and store an additional 24-36 hours.

Haitian Picklies   
6ea Scotch Bonnet Peppers (julienne)
3c Green Cabbage (shredded)
1/2c Carrot (shredded)
1/4c Yellow Onion (sliced thin)
1/4c Green Peas
4ea Whole Cloves
1t Salt
8 Whole Black Peppercorns
3c Vinegar
1/4c Sugar

Combine all ingredients in jar, seal.  Store for two days. Enjoy with caution!

KISS will open to the public on October 1 where guests will be able to try authentic Chicago-style favorites.  And look for them at the Best of A'Fare from Phoenix New Times

KISS is located at 7117 E 3rd Avenue, Scottsdale, AZ 85251, in the heart of downtown Scottsdale at the intersection of 3rd Avenue and Craftsman. You can also learn more about them on their website .