Classic Beef and Bean Chili

Can I ask you a question?

What does it mean when someone “winterizes” something? Is it just checking to make sure the chimney sweep doesn’t have eagles or hobos stuck in it again? Or is it a quick glance at the windows and doors for any slits where evil ice ghosts might slip through at an unexpected moment? Or is it checking the foundation in order to keep the house from sliding away in 13 avalanches in January?

Is that what it is?

I guess what I really need to know is, should I be wearing white glitter space boots, silver leggings, a tinsel tutu and holding a WAND for this?

I really need you to agree with me because I’m pretty sure that’s what you wear while winterizing. And I might already have the outfit on. WHAT?

The only real thing I know about winterizing is shoveling 14 pounds of chili into my head. You guys, this chili did some MEGA MAMA winterizing on my belly this weekend. It went ahead and winterized my soul, my toes, fingers and it winterized my mouth, too.

Are you winterized? Is your body, mind and spirit ready for the upcoming threats of the death season?

Take the first step (bite) towards a more winterized you with a bowl (or 25) of the classic beef and bean chili.

It’s time.

*Tinsel tutu sold separately.

Classic Beef and Bean Chili:

What it took for 6:

* 1 pound lean ground beef
* 1 medium yellow onion, diced
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 Tbs crushed jalapeno pepper (or 1 Tbs. cayenne)
* 2 Tbs. chili powder
* 2 Tbs. cumin
* 1 Tbs. smoked paprika
* 1 (14.5 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 (14.5 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 (14.5 oz) can chili ready red beans, undrained
* 1 (14.5 oz) can fire roasted tomatoes
* 4 small roma or heirloom tomatoes, roughly chopped
* 2 Tbs. fresh oregano
* 2 Tbs. fresh thyme
* 1 Tbs. dijon mustard
* 2 Tbs. honey
* 1 Tbs. brown sugar
* 1 Tbs apple cider vinegar
* coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
* fresh cilantro and grated parmesan cheese for garnish

Heat a large pot or dutch oven over medium-high and add the meat. Brown all over, then add the onions and garlic. Saute 2 minutes, until the onions have softened.

Add the crushed jalapeno peppers, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Bloom spices for 1 minute while tossing everything around.

Add the beans and tomatoes, along with all the herbs. Add 3 cups water (or stock of your choice) and simmer 20 minutes.

Add the mustard, honey, brown sugar and cider; simmer for an hour.

Taste it, toss in more salt and pepper if needed.

Serve chili garnished with cilantro and cheddar cheese.

And the glitter boots.