It's Fall, Y'all...and I Have a Chili Confession

Everywhere I look, pumpkins are showing up on front porches, football is back on TV, and the air is finally starting to feel like fall. It's my favorite season for cozy meals, warm sweaters, and a big pot of homemade chili simmering on the stove.

One afternoon, I had everything ready to make chili...or so I thought. I reached into the pantry for kidney beans and realized I was completely out. The only thing I could find was a can of Bush's Country Style Beans with bacon and brown sugar.

I almost didn't use them...but I'm so glad I did. That little ingredient mishap turned into one of my family's favorite chili recipes. It's slightly sweet with just the right amount of heat. Now it's one of those meals everyone gets excited about when the weather turns cool.

My Favorite Homemade Chili Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 ounces lean ground beef

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup diced celery

• 1–3 cans (14 ounces each) diced tomatoes, or about 4–6 cups fresh garden tomatoes, diced

• 2 cans (15 ounces each) dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained (or Bush’s Homestyle beans)

• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato paste

• 2–3 tablespoons chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon dried basil

• ½ teaspoon celery salt

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  
  

Directions

1. In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, brown the ground beef with the onion, celery, and garlic until the beef is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess grease.

2. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), kidney beans, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, basil, celery salt, and salt and pepper.

3. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

   
   

My Favorite Tips

• If your chili is thicker than you’d like, stir in about 12 ounces of chicken broth. It adds wonderful flavor while giving the chili the perfect consistency.

• Sometimes I add a can of Bush’s Homestyle Baked Beans for a touch of sweetness.

• Like a little heat? Toss in chopped jalapeños or banana peppers.

• Chili is one of those recipes that’s easy to make your own, so don’t be afraid to experiment!

  
  

Serving Suggestions

Top with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, or crushed crackers. Serve with warm cornbread or fresh bread for the perfect cozy meal.

What's your favorite way to eat chili?