1 onion, size of an egg, chopped
1/3 bell pepper, chopped
2 lbs. hamburger
1 lg. (No. 2) can tomatoes, chopped if pieces are large
1 1/2 tbsp. chili powder
1 tsp. oregano
1/2 tsp. sage
2 tbsp. vinegar
2 bay leaves
2 tbsp. sugar
2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper
1 clove garlic

Saute onion and green pepper. Add hamburger and saute until browned. Add can of tomatoes. Stir to blend. Add all of the seasonings. Simmer slowly at least 2 hours. Add water if necessary to keep it from becoming too dry.

This tastes best if it's removed from heat and allowed to stand awhile to blend the flavors. Reheat for serving. If time permits make sauce a day ahead and refrigerate. Serve with cooked spaghetti and Parmesan cheese.