No Beans about it Chili

Hi,

I have tried a bunch of different chili recipes, some had beans, some had various chopped veggies. They were all okay. But this chili has been my recent chili of choice. There's no beans, but it's simple and tasty.

1 1/2 pounds ground beef (Sometimes I use stew meat and cook it for longer in a slow cooker)

In a large pot over medium heat, cook meat, stirring often until brown.

1 large sweet onion (like a vidalia, but if you don't have a sweet one, regular onions will be fine)
2 large cloves garlic, finely minced
1 1/4 cups chicken stock (If you don't have stock, add the water and a small bullion cube)

 In same pot with the meat, add the onion, garlic and stock. Bring to a boil, cover and simmer for 45 minutes.

1 can diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin

Add the tomatoes and spices. Stir and simmer for another 45 minutes. Add a little water if needed.

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (this will make it spicy)
1/2 teaspoon salt and black pepper

Add the rest of the spices, taste before adding the salt to make sure you don't make it too salty.

I also like to add at the end some green matter. So I might add:

1 cup of frozen spinach (optional)
1/4 cup or so fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
1/4 cup thinly sliced green onions. (optional)
1/4 cup finely chopped sweet onion (optional)
1 cup shredded cheddar

If you add the optional veggies, heat them through. Spoon the chili into bowls. Sprinkle with onion and cheddar. I think a salad alongside goes well.

I hope you like this version of chili. It takes some time to cook, so it's good for an afternoon when you're home and there's no rush for dinner. I also use a slow cooker if I use stew meat. Everything is the same, just cook on low for 4-5 hours.

I hope your summer is going well and that you've made some delicious meals.

Hugs,
Mameekosan