Two-Friends Chili

Directions

1. 1
   In a large skillet, heat some olive oil to coat the bottom of the pan, add some of the garlic, some of the onion, some of chili powder, oregano, paprika, a few pinches of salt and pepper, and crushed red pepper.
2. 2
   When the onions are brown, add the beef and break it up.
3. 3
   Brown entirely.
4. 4
   *While browning*, prepare a large stockpot the same way you prepared the skillet, coating the bottom with oil and using the rest of the spices, onion and garlic (whatever was listed as *some* before, add the rest here).
5. 5
   Saute the remaining onion, garlic, and seasonings.
6. 6
   When the items in the stockpot are golden brown, add the beef that you browned fully from the other pan into the stockpot.
7. 7
   Add tomato sauce and then fill each can 3/4 with water and add that too (make sure your pot can hold all this plus what is still to come -- if not, you might require another pot, or to scale this recipe down a little).
8. 8
   Stir it all together, then add the peppers.
9. 9
   (If you taste for seasoning at this point, remember the tomatoes are still raw and can taste different from when cooked.)
10. 10
    Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and loosely cover.
11. 11
    Simmer one hour, watching so it does not splatter and stir occasionally.
12. 12
    After an hour, add the beans with the liquid from the cans.
13. 13
    Cook one to two more hours, stirring occasionally.
14. 14
    Serve with white rice, if desired.
15. 15
    (If you make great rice, go for it.
16. 16
    If not, visit your local Chinese restaurant and pick some up.
17. 17
    I like to put the rice in the bottom of a bowl and put the chili right on top).
18. 18
    Serves three small battalions.