Chili...If it Ain't Broken ...Don't Fix It

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I feel almost like a backwoods hick (wait a minute....I am a backwoods hick!) for posting this basic chili recipe. It is taken almost verbatim from a recipe card written in my Sainted Mother's own handwriting.[p]3 pounds of chili meat
2 medium onions
5 cloves of garlic (at least...my addition)
3 cans tomato sauce and 1 1/2 cans water (or 2 cans and 1 can of diced tomatoes...my addition)
chili powder to taste (I also like to add a healthy Tbs. or so of fresh red and/or green chile flakes
cumin seed (at least 1 tsp...I like to add about a tsp of ground comino, also)[p]Brown meat, onions and garlic....add tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin...etc, etc. and cook for 2 to 3 hours.[p]OK...here comes the controversy....I always add a can of Ranch Style Beans during the cooking process. Regardless of whether you do or you don't,....I think that you will find that this is one of the most simplistic, satisfying chili recipies that you have ever tried. [p]If you don't...I'm sure that,... given the opportunity, my Mom could convince you of the error of your ways.[p]Bon appetite.[p]Mike

Mike in MN

Law,
Ever add any honey to it at the very end? Honey brings out the flavor of tomatoes, but you don't want to add it during the simmer. It also works wonders in salsa, spaghetti sauce, or guacamole. I learned that from my mother.[p]I think the beans are a good idea.... especially if it makes you happy when you eat it. And of course, the beans may remind you how much you enjoyed the chili for the next few hours. We always add the beans. (and jalapeno's)[p]Mike in MN

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Mike in MN,
A man after my own heart![p]Happy Super Bowl![p]Mike