Chili

===History===

Chili originated in Texas in the 1800s. There are many variations of chili.

Recipes

Easy Chili

A very simple chili recipe consists of the following ingredients:

1. 30 oz. medium or dark red kidney beans
2. 30 oz. crushed tomatoes
3. 1/2 - 1 lb. cooked ground beef, turkey, or equivalent portion of vegetarian ground beef substitute
4. 2 tsp chili powder, or use chili-flavored kidney beans above

Cook on medium heat for 15 minutes. Taste kidney beans for flavor to determine when done. Serve with crackers, shredded cheese, and your favorite spices.

Bean Chili

• 1 can red kidney beans, drained
• 1 can black beans, drained
• 2 cans crushed tomatoes
• 1 small can of tomato paste
• 2 cloves garlic, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tbsp. olive oil or vegetable oil
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1/2 tsp. cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp. thyme, basil, oregano, or other spice

1. Heat oil over medium-high heat in a large pan.
2. Add garlic and onion and cook until the onion is translucent (more clear than white).
3. Add peppers and saute for a few minutes. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices.
4. When mixture is bubbling, reduce heat to simmer and add beans. Cover and simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes.

Serves 4