Ingredients

  • 2 lb. lean ground beef
  • 2 c. chopped onions
  • 1/2 c. chopped bell pepper
  • 1/2 c. chopped chili pepper
  • 1/2 c. hot jalapeno pepper
  • 2 qt. crushed tomatoes
  • 48 oz. kidney beans
  • 12 oz. tomato paste
  • 1 clove crushed garlic
  • 3 Tbsp. chili powder
  • 1 Tbsp. cumin
  • 1 tsp. cayenne pepper
  • 2 tsp. cilantro
  • 2 Tbsp. Tabasco (to taste)
  • 3 Tbsp. corn meal
  • 2 bay leaves

Method

  • Cook and stir ground beef until browned; drain excess fat. Stir in onions and peppers and cook until onions are clear (tender).
  • Stir in remaining ingredients except Tabasco and corn meal.
  • Heat to boiling, then reduce heat and simmer (covered) for two hours, stirring occasionally.
  • Mix corn meal with small amount of water to dissolve and use it to thicken chili, as desired. Taste chili and use Tabasco for smooth, mellow, hot flavor.