2-3 tbsp. bacon fat or butter
1/2 c. chopped onion
1/2 clove garlic
1-2 lbs. ground meat
3-4 c. kidney beans
1 1/4 c. canned tomatoes
3/4 tsp. or more salt
1/2 bay leaf
1 tsp. sugar
1/4 c. dry red wine
2 tsp. - 2 tbsp. chili powder

2 tablespoons is for 3-alarm.

Melt the bacon fat or butter. Saute the chopped onion and garlic in the fat. Add the ground beef. Stir and saute until well done.

Add the rest of the ingredients. Cover and simmer about 2 hours. Garnish with chopped onion and Cheddar cheese. Serves 8-12.