Chili con Carne

Not only did I wake up cold this morning, but I woke up cold, with out blankets! I had no idea that today the temperature was going to drop! So I was completely unprepared and totally not ready for the cold to pop up on me as it did this morning. I didn't even have the heat on nor did I have socks or long pants on!

So it was only natural for me to want something nice and hot to eat. Around this afternoon, I had a craving for Chili. Something I haven't had in some time. And I don't generally ever eat Chili except on cold days like today. Chili sounded perfect.

Its finished cooking at the right time as well. The temperature was dropping again and I was starting to get really cold again. So it finished at the right time. And was very tasty and comforting. To make things better, I got to enjoy this meal with blankets by a fireplace! Pure comfort!

Recipe

1 pd. lean ground beef
2 garlic cloves, crushed
2 tbsp. chili powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. dried oregano leaves
1 tsp. baking cocoa
1/2 tsp. red pepper sauce
1 can (28 oz.) dried tomatoes, undrained
1 can (19 oz.) red kidney beans, undrained
Shredded Cheese (optional)


1. Cook beef and garlic in 3 quart saucepan over medium-high heat for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beef is brown; Drain.

2. Stir in remaining ingredients except beans. Heat to a boil; Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

3. Stir in beans. Heat to a boil; Reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until to desired thickness. Serve in a bowl with shredded cheese if desired.