Secret Ingredient Beef & Veggie Chili

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 4 carrots, diced
• 2 cans stewed tomatoes (preferably seasoned)
• 1 can chili bean (with sauce)
• 1 can kidney bean (can substitute other beans)
• 1 can black beans (can substitute other beans)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional)
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• minced garlic or garlic powder
• salt and pepper

Secret ingredients

• 1/2 cup brewed coffee (optional)
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 dash Tabasco sauce (optional)
• 1 dash vinegar (optional)
• 1 dash ketchup (optional)
• 1 dash cinnamon (optional)

Directions

1. 1

   Brown ground beef in medium-hot skillet, adding some of the seasonings.

2. 2

   While beef browns, sautee vegetables in separate pot on medium heat, adding 2 tsp of the beef drippings (or vegetable oil if desired).

3. 3

   When beef is fully cooked, drain if desired.

4. 4

   Stir crumbled cooked beef and remaining ingredients into the vegetables, reserving optional ingredients.

5. 5

   Cook uncovered on low heat for a few hours (or in a crockpot with the lid"ajar"), stirring occasionally, until liquid reduces to desired consistency.

6. 6

   Adjust taste frequently using secret ingredients.

7. 7

   Enjoy with standard chili fare: cornbread, crusty bread, garlic bread, toast, baked potato, rice, etc.