Chunky Chili

We are notorious for not eating leftovers at our house, but this is one recipe guaranteed to be eaten! This is a very mild and chunky chili that kids and adults alike enjoy. Don't let the long list of ingredients scare you, this recipe is super easy! If you like your chili to have more of a soup-like consistency, leave out one can of beans.

You can also make this a vegetarian dish by omitting the meat or substituting "fake" meat for the ground beef (I use Morningstar Crumbles fro the freezer section of the supermarket). If using "faux" meat, just add it when you add the beans to the tomato base, no need to brown it at the beginning of the recipe. Also, if not using beef, you will want to saute the onions and garlic in a tablespoon or two of regular canola or vegetable oil until garlic is fragrant and onion is clear.

• 1 lbs lean ground beef (you can also use "fake" meat - I use Morningstar Crumbles from the frozen food section)
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 3 - 4 cloves of garlic (or garlic powder equivalent)
• 1 15 oz can of tomato sauce
• 1 cup water
• 2 cans petite diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can cannellini beans (white kidney beans), rinsed and drained
• 1 1/2 cups frozen corn, thawed and drained
• 2 - 3 Tbsp chili powder
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 black pepper
• A tiny sprinkle of Cayenne pepper (optional - use only if you want some spice in your chili)
• Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Chopped white or green onion (optional)
• Sour cream (optional)
• Crushed tortilla chips (optional)

1. In a large pot, brown meat with onions and garlic over medium heat until meat is brown and onion is clear.

2. Add tomato sauce, petite diced tomatoes, beans, corn, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and Cayenne pepper (if desired). If making vegetarian chili with "fake" meat, you would also add those at this time.

3. Bring to boiling and then reduce heat. Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes.

4. Serve warm. If desired, top with cheese, onion, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips. Corn bread or a green salad are great side dishes for this recipe!