Super Bowl Sunday is just a few days away!  The ease of preparation as well as the versatility of chili as a vehicle for comfort food makes it a perfect addition to the game day menu.  There are not many recipes where personal preference can dictate the final product the way chili does. Are you a traditionalist? Do you prefer red or white chili? Chunky tomatoes or smooth? Beans or no beans? Spicy or mild? Heat from cayenne or chipotle seasoning?  The options for additional ingredients including the meat, pork or protein are vast.  Our family and friends enjoy things a little higher on the spice scale but this recipe can be adjusted to your taste.  I suggest a good, long simmer as the flavors become brighter with time.

Ingredients:
• 2 lbs ground beef (not lean) or ground sirloin
• 1 Vidalia or other sweet onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons cumin
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (I am generous with this but I suggest starting small depending     on your food audience)
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 2 large cans crushed tomatoes ( I use the 28 ounce cans of San Marzano or Cento)
• 2 14 ounce cans of red gold chili ready diced tomatoes
• 1 8 ounce can of tomato sauce, any brand

*Season with salt to taste

Directions:
• Brown beef and onion until meat is no longer pink.
• Add garlic cloves and all of the spices. Stir just until fragrant.
• Add all of the canned tomatoes and tomato sauce, stir well.
• Simmer all afternoon!  Keep the spices at the ready, continue to taste as you go.  Season as it cooks. I generally end up adding more chili powder and cumin but I use the above as a starting point. .

Optional toppings: Chopped onions, sour cream, chopped cilantro, shredded cheese, guacamole, sliced jalapeno peppers

The day after: I love to use leftover chili as a topping for fried or scrambled eggs, chili nachos, or spread a thin layer in the center of a cheese quesadilla before popping it in the pan.  Let creativity be your guide.

This makes a large pot of chili, cut the recipe in half for a smaller group.

Enjoy!!