Halloween Chili

My Jack O'lantern this year

When I was a child (or at least, a younger one,) my parents would always make a big pot of chili before we would go trick or treating. While we don't trick or treat anymore, it's a tradition that lives on to this day-my sister Emily always makes chili and watches the Disney version of "Sleepy Hollow" (the one narrated and sung by Bing Crosby...and as a side note, I still think the headless horseman has the greatest entrance of any Disney villain!) Chili is one of those super speedy dinners, and while I thought there are more chili recipes floating around than you can shake a stick at, it's worth noting that this is incredibly easy and satisfying.

It's fun to have traditions like these-they reconnect you to a more halcyon time, and it's fun to wallow in a bit of culinary nostalgia.  That said, I make my chili the way I remember it, but I also make it every year.  It's also worth noting that this is a family recipe that evolved over a bit of time. Some say that real chili doesn't have beans in it, but readers already know what I think of chasing after culinary "authenticity."  Bottom line: if you don't like beans in your chili, don't add them.  POOF!  Everyone's happy!

Sour cream is tasty in this chili, as is a bit of cheese.  I personally never add the cheese, and only have the sour cream if I have it on hand.

Ingredients 

1 large yellow onion

1 pound ground beef or turkey

1 large can of diced tomatoes

1 can of chili beans

2 cloves of garlic
Salt and pepper

Chili powder (to taste-I used 3 tablespoons)
Cumin (extra)

Crushed red pepper (optional)

Sour cream, cheese or crackers/fritos (optional)

Method:

1. Slice the onion and saute in the fat of your choice (I use butter, olive oil, or vegetable oil.)  I don't do too fine a dice on these, as I want some larger bits.  As always, do as you please.
2. Add the 2 cloves of chopped garlic (I would chop this finely)
3. Add the beef and cook it through.

Not quite cooked yet.  If I had a larger pan on hand, I would have used it.

4. Add the chili powder. If you'd like a bit more earthiness, you might also consider adding some extra cumin.  Add the red chili if you're using it.  Let the spices permeate the meat-when you smell the earthy fragrance of the chili and beef/turkey, you're in a good place.  Instant comfort!

5. Add the diced tomatoes and simmer for about 1/2 hour.

6. Add the chili beans and let simmer another 1/2 hour.  The chili up to this point may look a bit watery.  You will know the chili is done when it goes quite red and is sturdy, not watery.

Dinnertime....

7. Eat greedily.  Happy Halloween!