Basic Chili

This is another recipe that I would give my Dad credit for because he has changed it quite a bit from the recipe found in Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook.  This is a delicious and flavorful chili, is very easy, and can be made mild or spicy.  This is definitely my go to chili recipe and is found on our menu many times during the cold season.

Basic Chili

Ingredients:
1 lb. ground beef
1 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 15 oz. can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 8 oz. can tomato sauce
1 small can of tomato paste
1 small can of diced green chiles
2 to 3 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp dried basil, crushed
dash of cayenne pepper

Directions:
Cook beef, onions, and garlic until beef is brown and onions are tender. Drain fat. Stir together with all remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, simmer (covered) for 20 minutes.

Notes:
--This is delicious served with grated cheese, sour cream and corn bread.
-- The amount of cayenne you add will determine how spicy it will be. Adding just a dash will add depth to the flavor without much heat.  If you want it to be spicy add more like 1/4 teaspoon.  Add to taste…tasting being the key.
-- If you like your chili with more beans in it add another can of beans (whatever kind of bean you like).  I like it with more beans sometimes.  Other times I’m more in a meat mood. 

-Paula