Chili con Carne

 Chili con Carne

1 T. olive oil

1 1/2 lb. ground beef

2 c. chopped onion

1 c. chopped green pepper

2 T. minced garlic

2 T. chili powder

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. ground pepper

2 tsp. ground cumin

1 tsp. dried oregano

1/4 tsp. cayenne

1 (15 oz.) can crushed tomatoes

3 T. tomato paste

1 tsp. sugar

2 c. water

2 (15 oz.) cans chili beans (optional)

Heat the olive oil in a large heavy pot.  Add the ground beef.  Cook until brown.  Add the onion, green pepper, garlic, chili powder, salt, ground pepper, cumin, oregano and cayenne and cook until soft.  Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar and water.  Add the chili beans if using.  Bring to a boil.  Lower the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

This chili is great without the beans to use for the chili on chili dogs.  It also makes great chili Frito pies with or without the beans.  It is great with the beans for a hearty soup.