Menu Monday

Fall ... football ... AND ... CHILI!  I don't know if there is anything better each fall than the return of chili.  Typically, I go with a simple chili, but I HATE beans - the texture, the taste ... everything = GROSS! But ... I believe I've found a substitute ... potatoes!

Here's the recipe ... it gets "judged" tomorrow, so we'll see if it receives raving reviews, but no matter what I enjoy it!

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (29 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups water
• 6 potatoes, diced
• 1 teaspoon hot pepper sauce

Chili Seasoning Mix...

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper
• 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
• 1 tablespoon dried, minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons white sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Brown meat, then add in onion and minced garlic. 
When onion is soft, add 2-3 Tbsp of the chili seasoning to the meat mixture
Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and water
Add potatoes and boil for 45 minutes
If necessary, add a couple dashes of hot sauce and/or additional chili powder
Serve with cheese, crackers or your favorite toppings!