A cold beer can be the perfect companion to a spicy, savory or bold chili and that combination is on tap at the 10th annual Pechanga Microbrew Fest & Chili Cook-Off.
The event at Pechanga Resort & Casino on Saturday, June 9, gives beer and chili fans the opportunity to taste and sample to their hearts’ (and stomachs’) content.
“The ingredients of beer are almost like additions you could add to chili — like hops, yeast, barely, salt and even some different fruits if you wanted to,” said Duane Owen, executive chef at Pechanga Resort & Casino. “Since they’re not in your chili, but something enjoyed alongside, you can experience the flavor profiles in a complementary way.”
And this year the event — which typically sells out — will give people more elbow room as the festival is being held inside the new 40,000 square foot Pechanga Summit. In previous years the event was held in the casino’s Grand Ballroom, which is half the size.
More than 30 breweries will pour unlimited tastings, including Mason Jar Brewing Company from Menifee, Refuge Brewery in Temecula, Saint Archer out of San Diego and Elysian Brewing Company from Seattle.
Here are three things to do at the event:
1. Drink beer
Festival goers will have a wide variety of craft, small-batch and microbrew selections to discover as well as some favorites.
“This is a great way to sample brews from some of the best breweries in Southern California,” Owen said. “It would take someone years to get to all the breweries that are under one roof at the event.”
2. Eat the chili
Chefs from the casino’s eateries put their own spin on a variety of chili from spicy to savory with unique ingredients. Attendees not only get to sample a variety of gourmet chili, but can also vote for their favorite. The winner will be announced near the end of the event.
“Our chefs get really creative with their chili recipes and work hard to make sure the flavors and ingredients pair great with some of the more common craft beer varieties,” Owen said.
Last year, Kiyo Ikeda, head chef at Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar, took top honors with a gourmet chili made with sake-glazed kobe beef.
This year’s contenders include a green chorizo chili, Southern alligator chili and a short rib and pancetta concoction.
3. Make a bid
The festival raises funds for Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley programs including home building, financial workshops and home improvement on behalf of seniors and disabled people.
A silent auction includes high-ticket items such as golf packages, exotic vacations, signed sports memorabilia and wine and beer gift baskets.
All proceeds from the silent auction go to Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley while a portion of ticket sales from the festival benefit the charity.
10th annual Pechanga Microbrew Fest & Chili Cook-off
When: 1 – 5 p.m. Saturday, June 9
Where: Pechanga Resort & Casino, 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula
Tickets: $50 general admission; $30 general admission designated driver; $65 VIP includes noon admission and upgraded glass; 40 for VIP designated driver; 21 and older only
Information: 888-810-8871, pechanga.com