Great weekend for some chili

I love to make chili and I don’t really follow a set recipe. I made one today and think I should record the ingredients somewhere, so her goes.

I ran across Al Roker’s Spicy Beef Chili awhile ago and have made my own version of it a few times. This isn’t going to be a set recipe for you to follow because I don’t measure the spice ingredients, but it will maybe encourage you to walk on the wild side a bit and create your own kickin’ chili.

Here are the spices:
Cumin, chili powder, ancho chili powder, paprika, black pepper and wait for it ….
cocoa powder. This is a must. It really balances out the peppers.

I sautéed onion, garlic, red and green peppers and set them aside. I browned cubed chuck steak and hot italian sausage. Added the onion, garlic and peppers back in. I then added 2 cans tomato sauce, one can Rotel diced tomatoes and peppers, one can each of black beans and kidney beans and a can of “Ranch Beans” I found at Winco. They are seasoned pinto beans. You could just add a can of regular pinto beans.

I mixed it all together, brought it to a boil then simmered for a half hour or so. I have to say this was one of my better ones. I like mine with some grated sharp cheddar, fresh diced onion and some avocado. Maybe a little sour cream.

It’s a great weekend for staying in and getting some projects done. I’m working on my design vision board. I’m trying some chalk board paint – not sure that’s going to work so well. I can always cover it up with dry erase poster board. I’ve put some cork board on it as well, with some fun cut outs. I’ll post a photo when it’s “live”.

And of course I’m doing some knitting. Working on a fun striped scarf that will be released soon.
Enjoy your weekend and happy knitting!
Shellie

I almost forgot, how do you like the new look of my blog? The hydrangeas are from my front yard. It was time for a bit of a change. 🙂