Shana's Chili

Now, this here is MY chili recipe.  Based off of several other recipes, but it's mine.  All mine.  And I love it.  If you love hearty chili, this is it.  You could probably make it spicier if you're one of those people who love really spicy foods, but this is just good old, yummy chili.

The beauty of it, is that it's so forgiving, and very versatile.  You have a good amount of wiggle room as far as measuring goes, so it's pretty easy to work with.  You can do it in the crock pot or on the stove top.  One of these days, I plan on canning it, too.  I'll let you know how that turns out.

So, here it is.

Shana’s Chili

1-2 pounds ground beef

2 chopped onions (white or vidalia)

5-6 cups finely diced celery

3/4 cup diced green pepper

2-3 cups tomato juice

1 can (28 oz) red beans, drained

1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (optional, I add it because I like a lot of tomatoes)

2 packages McCormick’s Chili seasoning

Brown ground beef, onion, celery and green pepper in a large skillet and drain.

Return beef to the pot, and add remaining ingredients.

Cover and bring to a boil. Lower to a simmer and cook 1-2 hours, stirring every 15 minutes.   

This recipe also works well in the crockpot on low, stirring every so often.  Just cook the meat first, and then toss everything in the crock.