Mama's Chili

Hand-squashed tomatoes and banana chile pepper are called for in this easy version of a favorite dish. (Try it on a day when you feel pent up and frustrated, but still need to get dinner on the table.)

• Preparation Time: 20 mins
• Cooking Time: 60 mins
• Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins
• Calories: 669 Calories

Ingredients

• ½ cup white sugar
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 (28 ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes
• ½ green bell pepper, chopped
• 4 (15 ounce) cans pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons banana pepper juice
• 8 slices American cheese

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Place the tomatoes in a large pot and squash them with your hands. Add the beans, onion, banana chile pepper, sugar, garlic powder and chili powder and simmer for about 20 minutes.

Step 2

Meanwhile, in a separate large skillet over medium high heat, saute the ground beef for 5 to 10 minutes, or until browned and crumbly. Drain the fat and add the beef to the simmering pot. Stir in the cheese, if desired. Allow to simmer for 1 more hour.