Mother-in-Law Chili

This recipe is from my husband’s mom and I remember the first time I had it I immediately asked for the recipe! It’s not your traditional chili, it’s less chunky - more like a soup, and it is sweet & savory. It is such a good chili recipe!! I actually make this version now more than any other version because of how easy it is. I like to eat mine with fritos (make frito chili pie!), and my husband eats his with saltine crackers. 

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1.5 lbs. 85/15 ground beef

• 1 white onion, small dice

• 2 garlic cloves, minced 

• 2 cans chili beans

• 2 cans petite diced tomatoes

• 48 oz tomato juice

• 1/3 cup chili powder

• 1/2 granulated sugar (or brown sugar)

• S&P to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

In a large stock pot, fully heated on medium heat, add vegetable oil and diced onion.

Sauté  onions until soft and then add the garlic and ground beef.

Season the beef with salt and pepper and brown.

Drain the beef and put it back in the pot.

Add the rest of the ingredients to the pot (beans, tomatoes, juice, chili powder, sugar) and bring to a boil then simmer for 30 minutes.

Taste and adjust flavor if necessary. Sometimes I add a little garlic powder, more sugar, more pepper, depends on your liking!

Serve hot with all the fixings! (Sour cream, cheese, cilantro, fritos, saltines… just go for it)