Wake Up Chili

It’s the holiday season and that can mean less time to plan what’s for dinner. This recipe can fit in with any holiday schedule and is especially great when cold weather arrives – like here. Read further down the list of ingredients to learn why it’s called Wake Up Chili.

• 2 C kidney beans (if using dried beans, soak overnight and simmer until soft)
• 1 ½ - 2 lbs ground beef (or mixture of beef and pork)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz can) OR  add a larger 28 oz can of diced tomatoes
• 1 can diced tomatoes - zesty chili style (14.5 oz)  *
• 1 large onion diced
• 1 large green pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 2 tbsp cumin
• 2 tbsp cilantro
• 1 tsp oregano
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• Fresh ground pepper and salt to taste
• Dash of garlic powder OR diced garlic (your preference)
• 1 C fresh brewed coffee

1. Sauté beef to remove excess fat and drain.
2. Sauté onion and pepper in a bit of olive oil.
3. Add beans and beef to crock pot. Then add tomatoes, peppers, onion.
4. Add seasonings – chili powder, cumin, cilantro, oregano – and  brown sugar. Add garlic, if using.
5. Pour coffee on top. Stir well, then cover crock pot.

Cook on LOW setting 8 to 12 hours (HIGH 4 to 5 ½ hrs), stir occasionally if possible. The longer chili simmers, the better it tastes.
NOTE: Shorten cook time by turning to High for 1-2 hours (1 hour on High = 2 hours on Low). Go and do something else the rest of the day.
Serve with choice of toppings: shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, sour cream, avocado, and/or cornbread.

Serves 6 to 8. And, if your household numbers 2 like ours, this means leftovers for a couple of nights.