Chili Con Carne

The number one rule in making a chili is never to use any fresh ingredient except for the beef, of course. Using dried herbs and powdered spices have been the key in making the best chili. I, for example, uses siling labuyo in making a chili but I dried them first in the sun. This particular chili recipe has beans. You can use any kind of beans like pinto, kidney, navy, etc. Just make sure that it's well cooked and the texture should compliment the beef. I'll let you in a little secret... Adding dark chocolate or a sprinkle of cocoa powder will boost the flavor up a notch. It may sound odd but it is being done all over the world. Chocolate has been the secret of a great chili. It's up to you if you'll use it or not.

Chili Con Carne
What you'll need:
1/2 kilo ground chuck
11/2 cups red kidney beans, pre-boiled
1/2 cup tomato paste
1 tbsp of each:

• cumin
• cayenne pepper
• chili powder
• garlic powder
• onion powder
• ground cinnamon 
• dark chocolate or unsweetened cocoa powder

1/4 cup dried red chilies
1/2 cup grated monterey jack cheese

How to:

1. Brown meat in a little oil. Add the rest of the ingredients and mix well.
2. Simmer for 1-2 hours in low heat.
3. When it gets a little dry, add a cup of beef broth or water. Continue to simmer.
4. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
5. Top with cheese and serve. Enjoy!