Chili Weather

There's nothing like a bowl of hot chili on a wintry day. Whether there is snow on the ground or wind and rain with cold temperatures, it's always nice to come indoors and get warmed up with a delicious meal. And chili will surely do the trick! Everyone seems to have a favorite recipe for this concoction. Some like it hot and spicy, while others prefer a more mild flavor. 

This recipe is the one I make for my family. It is not too terribly spicy, but that can be fixed by adding more black pepper or some jalapenos, or simply placing a bottle of pepper sauce on the table for those who like it hot. It's very easy to put together. The recipe says to cook it on the stove, but I have been using my slow cooker lately. That way, I can fix it in the morning and forget about it until dinner time. It will turn out a little more soupy if done that way, but you can use less water if you prefer. It will thicken up a bit in the refrigerator, and when you warm it up the next day it will taste even better! Served with crackers or corn bread and topped with cheddar cheese or chopped onion, this chili will warm you up on the inside while winter winds howl outside. 

Mama Judy's Chili

2 pounds  ground beef 

One 29-ounce can tomato sauce

Two 15-ounce cans dark red kidney beans (with liquid)

Two 15-ounce cans pinto beans or light red kidney beans (with liquid)

1 cup chopped onion

1/2 cup chopped green pepper

1/4 cup chopped celery

3 medium tomatoes, chopped

1 teaspoon cumin powder

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon black pepper

2 teaspoons salt

2 cups water

Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain off the fat.

In a large pot, combine the beef plus all remaining ingredients, and bring to a simmer over low heat.

Cook, stirring every 15 minutes, for 2 to 3 hours.

Makes about 12 servings.