Never Entered In A Contest But Still Super Good Chili Food

NEVER-ENTERED-IN-A-CONTEST-BUT-STILL-SUPER-GOOD CHILI

Steps:

• In a skillet, brown meat. Drain and set aside.
• Spray a large (6- or 7-qt.) pot with nonstick cooking spray and heat over medium heat. Add the onion, bell peppers, garlic, and celery, and saute briefly.
• Stir in the diced tomatoes and the Rotel.
• Add several shakes of cumin and chili powder (I do it until I can smell them -- you can always add more later), and also the italian seasoning, basil and oregano, if using.
• Cook for about 8 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
• Add the beans, browned meat, red pepper flakes, and chili seasoning.
• Partially cover, and simmer for at least 4 hours.
• Serve with shredded cheese and cornbread, if desired.

COWBOY CHILI

Steps:

• In a large saucepan, cook ground beef, garlic and onion over medium heat, stirring until beef is browned, about 10 minutes.
• Drain well.
• Stir tomatoes with liquid, broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano and cayenne pepper into beef mixture.
• Reduce heat to low.
• Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 1 hour.
• Add pinto beans and salt.
• Cook stirring, for 15 minutes longer.
• note: The flavor of the chili actually improves once the ingredients blend making this the perfect do-ahead meal.
• Refrigerate chili until ready to use, then reheat over low heat.