Hearty Potluck Chili Food

HEARTY SLOW-COOKER CHILI

Steps:

• In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add green pepper, onion and garlic; cook and stir 3-4 minutes or until tender. Transfer to a 6-qt. slow cooker., Working in batches if necessary, cook beef in the same skillet over medium-high heat until no longer pink, 8-10 minutes, breaking meat into crumbles. Using a slotted spoon, transfer to slow cooker., Stir tomatoes, tomato sauce, chiles, parsley and seasonings into beef mixture. Cook, covered, on low 6-8 hours to allow flavors to blend. Serve with rice and toppings as desired. Freeze option: Freeze cooled chili in freezer containers. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Heat through in a saucepan, stirring occasionally and adding a little water or broth if necessary.

HEARTY CHILI

Steps:

• Into a large pot over medium heat, toss in the onions, bell peppers and garlic, and sauté until tender, 6 minutes. Sprinkle in the spices to toast: chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper, and stir for 1 minute.
• Add the beef and the sausage, and stir and brown, while breaking it up with the back of a wooden spoon until crumbly and cooked through.
• Rinse the canned beans to reduce salt.
• Once brown, add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beans. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, and cook for 1 1/2 hours, stirring on occasion.