Basic Chili

My chili always seems to be different each time I make it--a little sweeter, a little chunkier, a little spicer. . .All because I can't seem to just follow a recipe.  This recipe is the closest to what I start with, but spices, beans, tomatoes and meat are all subject to change.

Ingredients

2 pounds lean ground beef
1 onion, diced
3 cloves minced garlic
1 (14.5 ounce ) can petite diced tomatoes
2 (14.5 ounce ) cans Italian-style diced tomatoes
1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 cup water
1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper

Directions

• In a large stockpot, brown ground beef
• Add onion and garlic and cook until onion is translucent
• Add all other ingredients.  Simmer for at least 30 minutes and serve

Yield: 8 servings