Halftime Chili

Delicious, healthy, easy, and a two-night dinner!  Makes enough for leftovers.

Serves 8 - 10

Ingredients:

2 Tbsp olive oil
1 1/2 Cups chopped onion
1 chopped green pepper
8 large chopped garlic cloves
3 Lbs ground chuck (I use ground turkey or chicken)
5 Tbsp chili powder
1 Tsp dried basil
1 Tbsp cumin
1/2 Tsp oregano
1/2 Tsp thyme
1 28oz. can crushed tomatoes (San Marzano brand is the best)
1 14.5oz can chicken broth
1 12oz can light beer
1 6oz can tomato paste
1 15oz can prepared chili beans
tabasco sauce (optional)
shredded lowfat cheddar cheese (optional)
chopped green onions (optional)

To Make:

Heat oil and add onions, garlic and green peppers.  Saute until tender.  Add ground chuck (or substitute).  Add seasonings.  Mix in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, beer and tomato paste.  Simmer for at least an hour.  Add chili beans 5 minutes before serving.

Optional:  Add tabasco, shredded lowfat cheddar cheese and chopped green onions on top!