2 tbsp. olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 bell pepper, roughly chopped
1 lb. ground beef OR
1/2 lb. ground beef AND 1/2 lb. ground spicy sausage
1 (28 oz.) can of diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (15 oz.) can of black beans, drained and rinsed
2 (15 oz. ea.) cans of red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
water
sliced jalapenos, canned or in jar (optional)

Spices (to taste):

salt and pepper
granulated garlic
ground cumin
chili powder
red pepper flakes

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery and bell pepper, as well as spices to taste, and cook until vegetables become slightly soft and onions are translucent.

Add ground beef (and sausage if using) and brown thoroughly.

Add diced tomatoes and beans. For extra spicy chili, add a few tablespoonfuls of sliced jalapenos and a few tablespoonfuls of jalapeno juice.

Add water until chili takes on a slightly soupy consistency.

Cook at medium heat for about 30 minutes. At this point, chili is ready to eat, but is better if you are able to simmer it for several hours.

Submitted by: Corrinne